Overexposure to the Sun can be harmful and a threat to your health. The sun contains rays, called UV rays that can seriously damage skin and has been proven to cause skin cancer, eye damage, immune system suppression and premature aging.

Whether you are at the beach or just in your garden you need to take proper precautions to keep yourself Sun Safe.

• Limit exposure to the sun between 10am and 4pm. This is when the suns rays are the strongest, and more harmful. Use your shadow as an indication. If you shadow is shorter than you are, the suns rays are at their strongest.
• When you are outside, especially in the garden, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and a long sleeved shirt. Clothing helps block out UV rays.
• Some medications increase your skin's sensitivity to UV rays, especially antibiotics and acne medications. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if the medications you are taking, including both over-the-counter and prescription medications, will increase your sun sensitivity.
• Watch NewsChannel5 daily for the UV index. The UV index indicates how intense the sun will be that day, and can help you plan your outdoor activities. The higher the UV index, the more harmful the sun's rays will be.
• Use Sunscreen EVERY TIME you are in the sun, and reapply it often. Here are some facts you should keep in mind when it comes to sunscreen:
• The SPF (Sun Protective Factor) should be a minimum of 15.
• Wear sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
• Apply sunscreen generously and evenly at least 30 minutes before you go out into the sun.
• Reapply often, about every 2 to 3 hours.
• Reapply after swimming, or if you have been perspiring.

With just these few precautions, you can keep you and your family safe… and SunSmart!