It’s the holiday season and you’re heading to the beach. You know it’s important to protect yourself from the sun so you take sunscreen, a hat, a beach umbrella, sunnies and a rashie shirt.
But why do some of us still find ourselves getting caught out by sunburn – having to sheepishly sport red skin when we know it’s on the list of big “no-nos”?
Do you take as much care protecting yourself at the beach as you do at a backyard family barbeque, at the local pool, sports game or even shopping at the markets? For many of us the answer is no.
The fact is – you are just as likely to get burnt at a sporting venue, in the backyard or shopping outdoors at a market as you are at the beach. So no matter where you are, you and your family staying SunSmart is paramount.
During National Skin Cancer Action Week, November 17-23 Cancer Council Queensland is encouraging families not to forget about the importance of sun protection and to boost their SunSmart behaviour.
Don’t get caught out – get SunSmart! Wherever you are it is important that you remember to take sun protective measures and reapply your sunscreen.
Slip on sun protective clothing, Slop on SPF30 or above broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen, Slap on a broad-brimmed hat, Seek shade and Slide on wrap around sunglasses to reduce your skin cancer risk.
Being SunSmart should be seen as a healthy habit, a priority every time you walk out the door.
This National Skin Cancer Action Week remind your family and loved ones of the importance of sun protection in reducing skin cancer risk and make an effort to incorporate SunSmart behaviour into all of your holiday activities.
Sunburn can occur in as little as 15 minutes and sun exposure can easily add up throughout the day.
National Skin Cancer Action Week runs from November 17 – 23.
More information about Cancer Council Queensland, and being SunSmart, is available at www.cancerqld.org.au or by calling Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20.
*2010-11 National Sun Protection Survey: Report 2, Australians’ sun protective behaviours and sunburn incidence on summer weekends, 2010-11 and comparison with 2003-04 and 2006-07.