Sun Safety Precautions Advised

During National Sun Awareness Week, May 26 to June 1, Toronto Public Health is reminding residents to take precautions while enjoying physical activity outdoors.

"Outdoor physical activity is a great way to stay healthy and enjoy the warmer weather," said Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health. "Effective sun protection keeps skin healthy and decreases the risk of both sunburn and skin cancer."

Follow these six recommendations for safer outdoor activity:

1. Limit time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., or whenever the UV index is 3 or higher.

2. Look for shaded areas for outdoor activities, or create your own shade.

3. Wear a hat with a wide brim, or with a visor and back neck flap..

4. Wear clothing to protect as much skin as possible.

5. Wear UVA and UVB protective sunglasses.

6. Use a sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher that gives protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

Skin cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Canada with an estimated 77,600 new cases predicted for 2008. "The best way to reduce the risk of skin cancer is to reduce exposure to direct sun and artificial tanning," McKeown added.