With the start of daylight savings people are encouraged to check the SunSmart UV Alert daily before planning their outdoor activities to ensure they are protecting their skin.
The Bureau of Meteorology SunSmart UV Alert is published daily on the Bureau web site and in NSW daily newspapers.
"People may not realise that UV levels are now already high, particularly during the middle of the day so it is an important time to use sun protection. UV radiation is what causes people to get burnt and skin cancer, not the temperature or amount of sunshine.
"Unfortunately too many people are continuing to take risks with their health and are still getting sunburnt despite the SunSmart messages," said Kay Coppa, Skin Cancer Prevention Manager at Cancer Council NSW
"UV levels tend to be higher between 10am and 3pm, but UV radiation is often at alert levels outside these times, doing damage to people's skin in as little as 10 minutes.
When UV radiation reaches an index of 3 it is strong enough to cause skin damage and skin cancer," she said.
ARPANSA's UV Index data has been collected over many years and history shows that at this time of year maximum UV levels can vary dramatically from day to day and it's important that people don't wait until summer to think about sun protection.
It's easy to check the UV Index each day
The SunSmart UV Alert appears when the UV Index reaches 3 or above. You can find it on:
When the UV Index is 3 or above, use a combination of the following five sun protection measures:
- Slip on sun-protective clothing - that covers as much skin as possible
- Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen - make sure it is broad spectrum and water resistant.
- Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards.
- Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun.
- Slap on a hat - that protects your face, head, neck and ears
- Seek shade
- Slide on some sunglasses - make sure they meet Australian Standards.
- Particular care should be taken between 11 am and 3 pm daylight saving time when UV Index levels reach their peak.
- Between these times the UV levels can range from a minimum of 3 up to a maximum of 11.
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Health & Fitness: Don't get burnt - get SunSmart!