Protect your children from the harmful effects of UV rays

 

When the warm weather arrives, a family day at the beach or a picnic in the park is a great way to enjoy the sunny outdoors. And while everyone is busy having fun in the sun, it can be easy to forget to practice sun safety.

Alternatively, if your family is planning a getaway down south to escape the cold, your teens may be looking to get a "base tan" by using an indoor tanning bed.

Either way, it's important for your children to be protected from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays, whether from the sun or indoor tanning equipment. When a tan fades, the damage from exposure to UV rays will last a lifetime.

So the next time your family is out in the sun or getting ready for a tropical getaway when the temperatures start to drop, keep these things in mind:

• Infants and toddlers need clothing, hats and shade that protect them from the sun.
• School-aged children spend lots of time exploring outside and playing outdoor sports. Finding shade, wearing protective clothing like hats and using sunscreen can help to protect them from the sun.
• Teens often think that being tanned is a sign of being healthy and beautiful. Tanning outdoors and using indoor tanning equipment is dangerous and can lead to health problems when they are adults.

Learn more about the importance of sun safety and the dangers of tanning beds so you’re armed with the knowledge to help protect your children from harmful ultraviolet radiation.