UV Index
Understanding the UV Index
It‘s healthy and fun for children to participate in outdoor physical activities and when the sun is shining, we tend to hear more about the UV Index during weather forecasts. But what is it exactly?
Environment Canada’s UV Index is a helpful tool that tells you the strength of the sun’s rays - the higher the number, the stronger the sun. It also explains what each level means and the actions you can take to protect your children.
To be sun safe while outdoors, consider planning activities with your children when the UV Index is 3 or less or before or after 11 a.m. or 4:00 p.m. when the sun’s rays are weaker. Learn more about the UV Index and the different levels.
Where to find information about the UV Index in your area
If the UV Index is 3 or more, it will be included in your local weather forecast.
The Environment Canada UV Index website also helps you understand the factors that affect how much UV reaches you each day.
Health Canada’s UV Index Sun Awareness Program
(School Program for Children)
Consider encouraging your children’s school to register for Health Canada’s UV Index Sun Awareness Program. The program explains to children what UV radiation is, how it can affect their health, and how to protect themselves. When teachers register, they receive a teacher's guidebook, UV index meter, UV detection beads, sun-sensitive paper, instruction and activity sheets. Read More
UV Index poster
Another great resource is the UV Index poster produced by Environment Canada. The posters can be ordered through Environment Canada’s Inquiry Centre. Orders from schools are limited to 10 posters. For the public, there is a limit of 2 posters per household.
