The warm weather is upon us. As the temperatures rise and we spend more time outdoors in the sun and heat we should be thinking about the risks of sun and heat exposure. Overexposure to the sun can damage the skin and could cause skin cancer. Heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rash are possible when overexerting yourself in the heat.

The National Safety Council has some great tips on how to prevent overexposure:

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep your head and face cool. This will also provide added protection from damaging sun exposure. Baseball caps provide little protection except to the face. A hat should protect the neck, face and ears.
• Wear a long-sleeved shirt at all times. It should be light colored and loose fitting except when working around machinery.
• Carry a source of water with you. Take drinks frequently—every 15 minutes.
• Take frequent breaks in the shade or in a cool environment during the hottest times of the day.
• Adjust gradually to working in the heat over a period of 10-20 days.
• Someone suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke should be moved to a cool environment, offered sips of water, if conscious, and provided with attention from emergency medical personnel.
• Wear sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 15. Make sure children are also adequately protected.

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