Florida Sun Safety
Too often, a day in the Florida sun can result in a scorching sunburn
or another form of heat stress. Even mild sunburns can cause days of
misery, while some extreme cases can require treatment by a doctor.
Taking the time to protect yourself and your family from the sun will
result in a more enjoyable vacation and possibly avoid an expensive
trip to the doctor.
Prevention Tips
| • Avoid sun exposure
during the hottest hours (11AM to 3PM). |
| • Apply sunscreen 30 minutes
prior to swimming or going outside. Reapply often and read the directions
on your sunscreen product carefully. |
| • Apply sunscreen with a
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15, paying special attention
to the face, nose, ears and shoulders. If you have extremely fare
skin choose a higher SPF. |
| • Check the UV Forecast broadcast
on local news programs and published in local papers. The general
rule is the higher the UV Index the higher the SPF needed in your
sunscreen. |
| • Don't be fooled by thinking
you can't get sunburned when it is cloudy. |
| • Watch for symptoms of sunburn
and know how to treat it. If you do get sunburned, treat it seriously. |
| • Wear sunglasses with UV
(Ultraviolet) Protection. |
| • Wear a hat and cover your
shoulders with your towel or shirt. |
| • Drink plenty of water and
non-carbonated drinks, even if you do not feel thirsty. |
| Limit your time in the sun. Prolonged
sun exposure is a major cause of sunburns, heat exhaustion and sunstroke. |
| • Foot protection is recommended when
walking on pavement or beach sand. Feet can easily get burned from
the hot pavement or sand and can be cut by hidden glass or sharp
shells. |
Symptoms and Treatment
Skin redness, swelling, pain,
blisters, fever and headaches. Ointments help mild cases; more severe
sunburns should receive medical treatment.
Occurs in legs and occasionally
in the abdomen. Gentle massage may help. Sips of mild salt water (teaspoon
of salt to 8 oz. of water). If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
Profuse sweating,
weak pulse and severe fatigue. Skin may appear pale and feel cold and
clammy. Greater severity marked by fainting and vomiting. Move person
to cool location, preferably air-conditioning and apply cool compresses.
If symptoms continue, seek medical attention.
Very high (106°) temperature,
rapid and strong pulse, and hot, dry skin. Move victim immediately to
cool location, apply cool, wet compresses, and seek medical help. This
condition can be fatal.
For more information on sun safety visit www.americansun.org. |