School’s Out, Summer’s Here: Tips For Kids For A “No Bummer” Summer (NAPSA)—Kids nationwideare gearing up to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities, like camp, sports and swimming. There are a few important facts parents should know to help protect them outdoors. According to the EPA, scientists predict that ozone layer depletion is currently at its peak. This means that more of the sun’s harmful UV raysare reaching the Earth’s surface. For parents, it’s a critical time to help protect kids’ skin from sun damage and teach them good sun protection habits. The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) warns that severe sunburns in childhood greatly increase a person’s risk of skin cancerlater inlife. Don’t let your kids leave home this summer without these sun safety suggestions from Thomas Meyer, Ph.D., fellow in suncare research and development at the Coppertone Solar Research Center. 1. Know your UV index. This number helps gauge how strong the sun is on a particular day, and should serve as a guide for assessing sunburn risk. When the UV indexis 8 or higher, the NFCRstresses that it’s even more important to use an SPF of at least 15, sunglasses and a widebrimmed hat, as well as UV-protective clothing. A UV index over 8 indicates high risk—it’s best to stay out of the sun between the peak hoursof 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Severe sunburns in childhood greatly increase a person’s risk of skin cancerlaterin life. @ 2. Pack a sunscreen appropriate for young children. Try a tear-free product like Coppertone Water BABIES Pure and Simple, which contains no oils, fragrances or dyes. Also choose a product that stands up to the “active kid test’—makesureit’s waterproof and offers both UVA and UVBprotection. 3. Be aqua aware. Summertime and water fun go hand in hand, but it’s important for parents to remember that the sun’s rays can bounce off water, making the risk of sunburn while swimming especially high. Even though a sunscreen may be labeled waterproof or water resistant, make sure to reapply after swimming, sweating or towelingoff. 4, Keep kids hydrated. Drink more water when spending time in the sun to help keep the body and skin hydrated. Toss a water bottle into your kids’ beach bags or backpacks. For more information, please visit www.coppertone.com.
