Au Pairs Keeping Children Safe Series - July is UV Safety Month

July is UV Safety Month

July is UV (ultraviolet light) Safety Month and the American Academy of Ophthalmology Boy Blowing Dandelion provides helpful tips for families who plan to enjoy fun in the sun this summer.

Educating your au pair regarding the dangers of sun and UV rays will ensure that your children will be as safe as possible during the hectic summer months.

Ultraviolet rays can cause skin cancer and too much UV rays can potentially damage your eyes.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology offers the following simple tips that your au pair should know (print these out and share with your au pair):

The suns rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Try to avoid being in the sun during these hours.
When out in the sun use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
Cover skin with long sleeves and hats.
Keep an eye on your skin. The American Cancer Society provides tips on what to look for in skin changes that may lead to melanoma, a form of skin cancer.
When choosing sunglasses select shades that block UV rays. Effective sunglasses should provide 97 percent to 100 percent UV protection.
Don’t be fooled on cloudy days and even haze. UV rays can pass through thin clouds and haze meaning you can get UV damage anytime during the year.
Wear protective eyewear during the peak hours when the suns rays are the strongest.
Children need protective eye wear as well. Kids are at risk just like adults and should also stay out of the sun during peak hours.
Make sure your au pair knows and understands the danger of sunburn and the consequences of unprotected skin and eyes in the sun! Have a safe and healthy July!
Stay Hydrated at all times - drink water every 15 minutes during activities in the sun and heat. Have water available at all times.
Don't let children get overheated during humid days or during high temperatures. Keep children's activities at a minimum during those conditions.
Play in the shade if possible.
AVOID SUNSTROKE/HEAT EXHAUSTION: If you or the kids are feeling dizzy, nauseous or light-headed, stop playing and get out of the sun. Cool down and drink water.