The heat is on, so remember to be smart: SunSmart

With the ACT about to have its hottest days so far this summer, it’s time to be smart about being outside. Cancer Council ACT is reminding everyone to take care of themselves and others when the temperature rises.

As people are heading outside to enjoy the many events happening around the ACT in the next few days, it is important to also remain SunSmart. In the peak of summer, ultraviolet light (UV) that causes skin damage will reach extreme levels.

There are five simple ways to protect your skin:

Slip: on some protective clothing

Slop: on some sunscreen (30+ is best and remember to reapply every two hours or more often)

Slap: on a broad brimmed hat (to also protect ears and neck)

Seek: shade whenever possible

Slide: on some UV protective sunglasses.

Adding another S to the mix is also a good reminder to keep fluids up in hot weather – Slurp.

Consider downloading the free SunSmart App to check UV levels at any time throughout the day.

Every year over 12,000 Australians are diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer and approx. 2,200 Australians will die from skin cancer each year. The majority of skin cancers are preventable if people are SunSmart when outdoors when UV levels are 3 or above.

Contact details: Sandra Turner – CCACT Chief Executive Officer – M: 0414 695 632.