Sun safety
The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the main cause of skin cancer, sunburn and eye damage. UV damage in childhood significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is a major health risk in Queensland, and it is important to protect them from the sun and equip them with good sun protection habits. Don’t just wait for hot or sunny days, as sun protection is recommended when UV levels read 3 or higher.
It is recommended you follow the 5 SunSmart steps:
- slip on protective clothing that covers as much skin as possible
- slop on sunscreen, preferably a broad spectrum SPF30+ that is also water-resistant, and re-apply every 2 hours
- slap on a hat that provides as much shade as possible to the face, head, neck, ears and eyes
- seek shade, such as trees, built or portable shade structures, making sure it casts a dark shadow
- slide on sunglasses, preferably those that meet the Australian Standard and carry an eye protection factor (EPF) of 10.
More information
- Read about heat-related illness.
- Cancer Council Queensland sun protection information.