•  Spring and Summer Safety

    Sun Safety

    Sunburn can happen within 15 minutes of being in the sun, but the redness and discomfort may not be noticed for a few hours. Repeated sunburns can lead to skin cancer. Unprotected sun exposure is even more dangerous for kids who have many moles or freckles, very fair skin and hair, or a family history of skin cancer.

    Signs and Symptoms

    Mild

    • skin redness and warmth
    • pain
    • itchiness

    Severe

    • skin redness and blistering
    • pain and tingling
    • swelling
    • headache
    • nausea
    • fever and chills
    • dizziness

    Prevention

    • Minimize exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
    • Wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and a hat.
    • Apply sunscreen that provides UVB and UVA protection with a SPF of at least 15 - do not use oils.
    • Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure and 30 minutes after exposure begins, then reapply after been swimming or sweating.

    Treatment

    • Take a cool but not cold shower or bath or apply cool compresses as often as needed.
    • Drink extra fluids for the next few days.
    • Ask your parent if you can have pain relieving medications. Be sure to use as directed.
    • Use moisturizing creams or aloe gel to provide comfort and reduce the risk of peeling.

    Seek medical treatment for any of the following symptoms: blisters or extreme pain, facial swelling from a sunburn, fever or chills after getting sunburned, headache, confusion, or a feeling of faintness, signs of dehydration (increased thirst, dry eyes and mouth, decrease in urine.

     

    Sun