Sun safety at school

Education about sun safety

Education is a key strategy in bringing a greater awareness to the changes that the ozone layer is experiencing, the dangers of over exposure to UV radiation, and is an important factor in promoting “sun sensible” behaviour.

School children spend a great deal of time outside when the sun is strong, especially during lunches, recess and sporting activities. As part of public health and safety, helping young people protect themselves from the sun will go a long way to preventing serious health problems later in life.

This is because it is during our younger years that we receive most of our lifetime's exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Damage in the form of a sunburn will stay with you for life and can be even more dangerous later in life.

Schools are encouraged to develop policies that ensure that teachers, parents and students:

• Are aware of the risks of being over exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun;
• Organize outdoor activities outside the peak hours of 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and if possible, try to keep children entirely out of the sun from noon to 2 p.m.;
• Educate children and youth about the benefits of wearing protective clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher; and
• Have shade structures on playgrounds and at sport fields. This can also include creating a sun safe environment by encouraging kids to seek shade from trees, awnings, umbrellas or buildings.

Remember – being in the sun is fun, so make it safe for everyone!