Stay Safe with the 5 S’s!
Coauthor and Edited by Joshua Payne, RDN, LDN – Extension Agent I, Nutrition and Health
Summer’s here, and that means more time outdoors, enjoying the beautiful sunshine! While we all love a good dose of vitamin D, protecting ourselves from the sun’s powerful UV rays is super important. That’s why at our recent 4-H camp, we learned all about the 5 S’s of Sun Safety – an easy way to remember to stay protected while having a blast!
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Slip
One of the simplest ways to protect your skin is to slip on a shirt. Think cool, long-sleeved shirts made of lightweight fabric. They provide a great barrier against the sun, especially during peak UV hours. The more skin you cover, the better!
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Slop
This is a big one! Always slop on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed skin at least 20 minutes before you head outside. And don’t forget to reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating a lot. Sunscreen creates a protective shield for your skin.
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Slap
Your head, face, ears, and neck are especially vulnerable to sun exposure. That’s why it’s crucial to slap on a hat! Look for hats with a wide brim that can provide shade for all these areas. A baseball cap is better than nothing, but a wide-brimmed hat offers much more protection. Choose your hat material carefully; some trap more heat than others.
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Seek Shade
When the sun is at its strongest (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM), try to seek shade. When your shadow is shorter than you are, it is a reminder to actively seek shade. Take breaks under trees, pop open an umbrella, or head indoors for a bit. Giving your skin a break from direct sunlight can significantly prevent sunburn and long-term damage.
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Slide
Your eyes need protection too! Slide on sunglasses that block 99% or 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. This will help shield your eyes from harmful UV radiation, which can contribute to eye problems down the road. Plus, they look super cool!
By following these 5 S’s, you can enjoy all your favorite outdoor activities while keeping your skin and eyes safe from the sun. Remember, sun safety isn’t just for sunny days – UV rays can penetrate clouds, so always be prepared! Watch this short clip to see it in action. https://www.facebook.com/hillsborough4hfl/videos/719783373878177
Resources:
CDC- Sun Exposure in Travelers
Head Start- Summer Safety Tips
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