What Damage Does UV Cause?

The short-term results of unprotected exposure to UV rays are tanning and
sunburn. A sunburn causes skin redness, tenderness, pain, and in some cases,
swelling and blistering. Symptoms of more serious sunburn include fever, chills,
upset stomach, and confusion. If these symptoms develop, see a doctor. The long-term effect
of sunburn is more serious. UV exposure that is intense enough

What is the UV Index?

To remind people to take precautions against the potential damage of UV exposure,
the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Weather Service
developed the UV Index. The UV Index number, ranging from 0 to 10+, indicates the
amount of UV radiation reaching the earth's surface during an hour around noon. A
higher number means greater exposure to UV radiation. The UV Index is forecast daily
for 58 cities, based on locally predicted conditions. It is valid only for about a 30-mile
radius from the city, and, as with any forecast, local changes in cloud cover and other
factors may alter actual levels experienced.

The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in
ways that prevent overexposure to the sun. Developed by the National Weather Service
and EPA, the UV Index is issued daily in selected cities across the United States.

Watch the clock. Try to limit the amount of time you're in direct sun during 10 a.m.
and 4 p.m.

Make a statement with shades, hat, and a wild T-shirt. A cool pair of UVA/UVB
blocking sunglasses protect your eyes like nothing else. As for your hat, if you get
really hot, dunk it in water, then pull it on (but make sure it's a wide brimmed hat).
Of course, a long-sleeve T-shirt is a must for summer fun.

Block the sun year round. It's possible to burn all year (that includes cloudy and
snowy days). So whether you're walking to school or outside playing don't forget
to block the that sun, to have fun year round!

Use a sun block with an SPF of at least 15. If you have fair skin, light-colored
eyes and hair, freckles, or spend a lot of time outside, use an SPF 30 or higher.
Apply sun block 15 minutes before you go out. Reapply after prolonged swimming,
vigorous activity, sweating, or toweling off.

Remember your ears, nose, neck and hands. They may seem small but they
can burn big time. Always cover these areas with sun block.

"Waterproof" your skin. If you're spending a day at the beach or at the pool, cover
up with waterproof sun block. After swimming, toweling off, sweating, and/or vigorous
activity, be sure to reapply sun block.