Stay in the shade

cancer research UK Over the summer months, one of the best ways to avoid the sun's harmful UV rays is to find shade under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors. UV rays are invisible and cannot be felt on the skin. They penetrate deeply into our cells, causing changes that lead to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage and skin cancer

Why 11am to 3pm?
The sun's UV rays are strongest in the hours around midday. This is why it's best to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm if you can.

There are other things that affect the amount of UV rays:

  • Time of year - the highest risk months in the UK are May to September. In Australia, November to February are the danger months. Near the equator, there are strong UV rays all year round.
  • Altitude - UV rays are stronger the higher you go. So skiers and mountaineers beware!
  • Cloud cover - you can still burn on a day when there is thin or scattered cloud, but heavy cloud does offer protection.
  • Reflection - up to 85 per cent of UV rays can be reflected back from snow, sand, cement and water.

    Providing shade

    Using shade is an easy way to be safe. For example:
  • trees and foliage
  • umbrellas and parasols
  • canopies and awnings
  • tents and shelters
  • wide-brimmed hats

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    In association with Cancer Research UK. Registered charity number 1089464