Don't wait to feel the heat before being SunSmart

SunSmart | Cancer Society

Don't wait to feel the heat before being SunSmart
20 September 2009

With summer not far away, SunSmart and the Cancer Society are urging New Zealanders to avoid sunburn by remembering the SunSmart golden rules – slip, slop, slap and wrap.

After a long cold winter, the sun’s warmth is welcome and it’s easy to forget about the harmful effects of the sun. But ultraviolet radiation levels are already creeping up throughout the country as we get closer to the peak UVR period of October to March.

SunSmart Manager Wayde Beckman says we can be at risk of sunburn even in spring’s sometimes cool, windy and cloudy conditions.

“Now the worst of the weather is behind us, we’re all looking forward to living our great Kiwi summer lifestyle.

“Thoughts turn to the beach, a few early BBQs, and doing some of that DIY that’s been neglected over the colder months.

“But people can get badly sunburnt at this time of the year. In fact, spring can be particularly dangerous for sunburn because cooler temperatures and cloudy days can lull us into a false sense of security.”

Dr Judith Galtry, the Cancer Society’s Skin Cancer Advisor, says the good news is most skin cancer is preventable if we avoid over-exposure to UVR.

“It’s important to remember the SunSmart messages at this time of year.

“Never get sunburnt, and make sure you wear sun protective gear, such as a shirt with collar and long sleeves. Slip into the shade, slap on a hat that protects your face, head neck and ears, slop on some 30+ SPF sunscreen, and wrap on a pair of sunglasses.”

ENDS

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