Brattleboro Memorial Hospital (BMH) is a not-for-profit hospital that provides high quality inpatient, outpatient, and ambulatory services for the communities in the tri-state area of Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts.

The connection between over-exposure to UV light (from the sun’s rays and/or tanning beds) and cancers of the eyes, lips, and the skin is well established. Also, people who get too much UV light can also develop weakened immune systems. July has been established as UV Awareness Month to increase the understanding between UV light exposure and health.

The sun is at its peak between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, so it’s best to spend most of this time indoors…especially during summer months when the sun is strongest. If you’re outside for periods of time (for either wrk or play) then it’s important to take steps to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s UV rays.

• Apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater.
• Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Wear breathable clothing.
• Stay in shaded or covered areas whenever possible.
• Make sure babies under 6 months avoid all exposure to direct sunlight.

Remember that just 10 or 15 minutes in strong sunlight can burn your unprotected skin. Also be aware that UV light can pass through clouds and can be intensified when it bounces off surfaces such as sand, cement, snow, and water.

Sun safety saves lives and makes a difference all year round.