Sun Safety Tips So You Can Enjoy the Florida Sunshine

You’re ready to get out there and explore Florida’s natural beauty. Before you head out into the hottest months of the year, you’ll need to grab more than your sunscreen.

Sun protection is key during our hot summer months. But according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), less than half of older adults protect their skin from the sun when outside for an hour or more on a warm, sunny day. This may raise the risk of getting skin cancer.

For outdoor fun, it’s important that you have proper:
• Shade: Bring an umbrella or tent if you’re going to be in the sun for long. And try to find shade under a tree or take breaks indoors away from the sun’s powerful rays.
• Clothing: Invest in Ultraviolet (UV) protective clothing and swimwear.
• Hats: Wide-brimmed hats protect your face, neck and eyes.
• Sunglasses: UV sunglasses are necessary for covering your eyelids, corneas, lenses and other parts of the eye.
• Water: It’s easier to get dehydrated faster during the summer. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially when you’re outdoors. Try to stay away from or limit alcohol as it can increase dehydration.
• Sunscreen: Don’t forget this must! Use it when you’re headed to the beach or just out for a leisurely walk in the park. The CDC recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks the sun’s rays and has an SPF of 15 or higher. In this case, lathering is your friend. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours, and don’t forget to give yourself 15 minutes before heading outdoors for it to work at its optimum. Remember, although it has a lengthy shelf life, sunscreen can expire. Be sure to replace it after one to two years.

Taking these easy steps, and making them some of your everyday habits, can help prevent sunburn and skin cancer risk.

Safely is the best approach when enjoying the summer months, and it’s important to learn the danger signs of too much sun. The CDC recommends that you immediately seek medical attention if any of the following occur:
• Severe sunburn, especially if it covers more than 15% of the body
• Dehydration
• High fever (above 101° F)
• Extreme pain that lasts more than 48 hours

Have sun safety questions? You don’t need to be a member to talk with one of our Florida Blue nurses. They can answer any of your health questions and help you make a plan to improve your health.

Find your neighborhood Florida Blue Center at floridablue.com or call 1-877-352-5830 (TTY 1-800-955-8771).

Call your local agent: 352-353-3399
Dell Richards

Florida Blue Medicare is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
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