When school lets out, suddenly more and more people head outdoors to soak up some rays and engage in favorite activities. But if you don’t take measures to protect yourself and family members from the sun’s potentially harmful rays, you might find yourself with a severe case of sunburn or heat stroke – and that can turn a good day into a painfully bad one.

Even one or two cases of sunburn during childhood and adolescence can double one’s risk for developing melanoma in adulthood. And because, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, approximately 80 percent of sun exposure occurs in childhood, it’s especially important to keep your youngest family member safe. Here’s some good advice for children and adults alike.

Wear Sunscreen

• Select a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or more.
• Apply it generously to all exposed areas of the skin 15 to 20 minutes before going out in the sun.
• Don’t forget the top of your ears, your neck, and top of your feet.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating excessively. Yes, even waterproof sunscreen should be reapplied often.
• Remember that babies under six months cannot wear sunscreen, so keep them out of the sun as much as possible – plus, dress them in light, breathable layers of clothing.

Protect Your Face and Head

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to prevent your head and face from direct sun exposure.
• Wear UV-blocking sunglasses in bright sun to prevent eye damage.

Know When to Cool Off

• Take frequent breaks from the sun, especially on excessively hot days. If you can’t go indoors, find a shady spot to give yourself a break and chance to cool off.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Avoid sugary drinks that do little to quench your thirst.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure between the peak hours of 10am and 4pm.

If You DO Get a Sunburn…

• Alleviate pain with a cool bath and allow your skin to air dry or pat gently with a towel to seal in moisture.
• Apply aloe vera gel to sunburned areas to help ease discomfort and heal skin.
• Rehydrate the skin by applying a moisturizing cream while your skin is still damp. Choose one made with natural ingredients and no added fragrances that can dry out skin.
• If you have a severe sunburn and your skin starts to blister, contact your healthcare professional.

It’s one thing to toast yourself outdoors, but why subject yourself to excessive heat at home? No reason at all with C&D on hand to maintain and repair your AC system as needed. We also perform custom installations of central air, ductless air, and heat pump home comfort systems. Contact us today to schedule service so you can keep you cool all summer long.