From Sprague School Nurse - Summer Safety

By Sharon Kahn RN

            Finally, it’s almost summer vacation!  We’re all looking forward to the lazy days that are ahead.  My wish is for everyone to have a safe, fun and restful summer so we can return in September ready for another great year.

            One way to keep safe in the summer is to remember sun protection. Research shows a definite link between sunburn in childhood and an increased rate of skin cancer in adulthood; scientists estimate that protecting the skin from the sun’s rays could prevent 80% of skin cancers. According to the National Safety Council, just a couple blistering sunburns in childhood doubles one's risk of developing melanoma later in life. Sun exposure has also been linked to the development of cataracts, damage to the cornea and retina in the eye, transient immune suppression, and wrinkling and aging of the skin. (All people, regardless of skin or eye color, are equally at risk for eye damage from exposure to the sun.) Taking a few sensible precautions allows us to enjoy being outside while lowering the chance of sun-related health problems.

           

The American Cancer Society recommends Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap!   Slip on a shirt; Slop on sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher; Slap on a hat that shades the face, neck and ears; and Wrap on sunglasses to protect eyes and the tender skin around them from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Additional protective measures include:

• Limit the time spent in the intense sun during midday.  Seek shade when possible, remembering that the sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Teach your children that if their shadows are shorter than they are, they should look for some shade.
• Liberally apply sunscreen with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection before going outside (approximately 1 ounce per application). PABA-free sunscreens are recommended for people with sensitive skin, including children.  
• Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming. Remember that sunscreen usually rubs off when you towel yourself dry - time to reapply.   (Do not use sunscreen on babies younger than 6 months; instead, use hats, clothing, and shade to protect small babies from the sun.) 
• Be mindful that 80% of the sun’s rays can penetrate clouds, mist, and fog; sunscreen is also needed on cloudy days to prevent sunburn. 
• Use lip balm with an SPF of 15 or higher. 
• Wear protective clothing such as a shirt, pants, or a wide-brimmed hat whenever possible.
• Use extra caution near water, snow, sand, and any light-colored surfaces like concrete since they reflect UV rays and increase chances of sunburn.
• Make sun protection a habit and be a good example for your children.

            Sunscreen contains ingredients that lose potency over time; bottles that have been sitting on the shelf for a year may not provide adequate protection from the sun.  It’s recommended to replace sunscreen yearly.

            The Sun Safe Alliance recommends we “check our birthday suits on our birthdays”; if you notice anything changing on your skin, see a dermatologist. Skin cancer is very treatable when detected early.

            Studies have shown that much of one’s lifetime sun exposure occurs before age 18.  Following safe sun practices with our children will protect them and promote life-long good health.

Have a wonderful summer,

Sharon