Summer Fun

Here Comes the Sun
Updated UV Index Shines Light on Rays
A crucial warning system has been recently updated for your skin's protection. In compliance with the World Health Organization, the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Weather Service revamped the UV Index, a system created to alert people about the level of harmful ultraviolet (UV) light rays from the sun. Overexposure to UV rays can cause wrinkles and premature aging, skin cancer, cataracts, and immune system suppression.

Many factors influence the strength of UV rays: UV light is stronger in the summer, at higher altitudes, and in areas closer to the equator. It's also stronger at midday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun is directly overhead.

The new UV index ranges from 0-11 with guidelines as follows:

0-2: low. Minimal exposure for the average person, but watch for reflected UV from snow and water.

3-5: moderate. Stay in the shade during midday. Cover-up outside.

6-7: high. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and a sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 15. Avoid midday sun.

8-10: very high. Take extra precautions, and avoid midday sun. Wear protective clothing.

11: extreme. Take all precautions, seek shade, and avoid midday sun. If possible, stay indoors.

As part of its daily forecast, the National Weather Service publishes the UV index for each area of the country. Go to www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html and enter your zip code to find your UV index for the day. The Weather Channel, as well as most local TV stations, include the UV index in their weather forecast. It can also be found at www.weather.com. For a detailed description of the UV index, or for more information on sun protection, visit www.epa.gov/sunwise.

(Article courtesy of Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals: http://www.abmp.com/)