• By Sheila Bogan
• Posted Tuesday, July 13, 2010

July is UV Safety Month

UV Safety Month is a great time to spread the message of sun, fun and UV safety to your community. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of skin cancer. UV rays can also damage your eyes. Anyone can get skin cancer, but the risk is greatest for people with:

• White or light-colored skin with freckles
• Blond or red hair
• Blue or green eyes

You can take these steps to help prevent skin cancer:

• Stay out of the sun between 10 am and 4 pm
• Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
• Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.
• Check your skin regularly for any changes.

Take action to raise awareness about UV Safety and skin cancer prevention.

1. Host a tree-planting event. Ask your organization’s leaders to plant trees around the building for members to enjoy the outdoors while staying in the shade. Consider teaming up with local environmental organizations for cross-promotion.
2. Post skin safety tips near major entrances for members of your organization to read before stepping out into the sun.
3. Send a memo with vacation tips to your members. Encourage them to bring sunscreen, wear hats, and to avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
4. Ask a health professional (a local dermatologist, registered nurse, public health official, etc.) to demonstrate how to check skin regularly for skin-cancer warning signs.
5. Host an indoor family health fair with recreational activities.

Adapted from the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Contact the American Academy of Ophthalmology at eyemd@aao.org for more information and materials.