Summertime is fun in the sun!

Whether it be having a family cookout, catching an evening Isotopes game, or spending some time at Fenton Lake, we are constantly exposing our skin to harmful UV rays which often lead to sunburn. Sunburn is bad news, but the good news is that it’s totally preventable! And the best time to start is today.

Did you know… Excessive and/or multiple sunburns cause premature skin aging and increase your risk for skin cancer? Skin cancer is the most common type in the U.S., and exposure to the sun is the leading cause of the disease.

To prevent sunburn and lower your risk of skin cancer, it is best to utilize and practice sun safety! Just remember, “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, and Slide.” Slip on a shirt, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a hat, Seek shade, and Slide on sunglasses. Check out the infographic we created below to help you remember to utilize your 5 S’s and prevent your risk of skin cancer today!

These 5 simple steps can help decrease exposure to harmful UV rays when enjoying the outdoors. The sun’s rays, ultraviolet (UV) radiation, can damage the skin in as little as 15 minutes. Other important factors include limiting sun exposure from 10am-4pm, when sun rays are the strongest, and being aware of your surroundings. Reflection off surfaces can cause UV rays to bounce off surfaces like water, sand, snow, pavement, or even grass, leading to increased UV exposure. During summer, the UV intensity tends to be at its highest. The CDC mentions that too much sun can cause skin cancer, sunburns, aging, eye damage, and more.

Put your skills to the test! Please share with us the different ways you practice sun safety by taking a picture and using the hashtag #HemishSunSafeSelfie on Facebook, Instagram or email at fitt@jemezpueblo.us! All participants will be entered into a drawing to win 1 of 3 Public Health incentives, including a hat and a long sleeve shirt to protect your skin! The drawing will be held Friday, July 29, 2022 @ 3pm. We look forward to seeing all your Sun Safe Selfies!