Welcome to the York Region Web site. If you would like to navigate this site using screen reading software click here now
Link to York Region e-Services Link to Regional+Government York Region Transit Yorklink Directory Link to Careers Region Calendar York Tourism
Home Disclaimer Maps Contact Us Site Map
SEARCH Search 
PRINT Print 
YORK REGION>Services>Public Health and Safety>Cancer Prevention
 
Menu About Us
Menu Services
Menu Regional Government
Menu News
Business
Menu Public Notices
Menu Publications
Menu Departments
Municipalities
 

 
Sunsafety
Skin Cancer Playing Outdoors Working Outdoors Resources

 

Playing Outdoors and Outdoor Activities

 

Be sun-safe and follow the Canadian Cancer Society's Sunsense Guidelines:

 

  • Reduce sun exposure between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. or when the UV Index is 3 or more
  • Seek shade or create your own shade
  • Slip! on clothing to cover your arms and legs
  • Slap! on a wide-brimmed hat
  • Slop! on sunscreen SPF 15 or higher ( SPF 30 if you work outdoors or will be outside for most of the day)
  • Keep babies under one year out of direct sun

  • Artificial Tanning equipment (tanning beds and sunlamps) is not a safe way to tan

Environment Canada developed the UV Index© to inform Canadians about the strength of ultraviolet rays. The higher the UV Index©  number, the stronger the sun's rays are thus the need to take precautions. Listen for Environment Canada's UV Index©; it is included in your local weather forecast whenever it is predicted to reach a level of three (moderate) or higher.

 

Remember to practice skin self examination. Be familiar with your own skin so you can recognize changes. Examine skin each month and know the pattern of moles, freckles and other marks. If there are any changes, see your family doctor.

 

A key strategy to reduce exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun is the use of shade.  Natural shade from trees can provide a canopy of leaves to block UV radiation from the sun.  Built  shade, such as canopies and umbrellas, can also provide effective protection from UV radiation. Use the Planning an Outdoor Event tip sheet, when organizing an outdoor event to protect all involved.

 

Consider adding shade to the following areas:

  • Parks and playgrounds
  • Sporting and recreational facilities
  • Outdoor pools, beaches, splash pads and wading pools
  • Multi-use pathways
  • Streetscapes
  • Schools
  • Child care centers
  • Private homes

A more detailed outline from types of trees to plant to where to build shade structures is available in the  Shade: A Planning Guide, Plant Trees, Build Shade Guide or at Sun Safe York.

 

For printable resources and web links check out our Resource page.

 

 

For more information or to speak with a Public Health Nurse, please contact:

            York Region Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653, TTY 1-866-252-9933

  
 
Back to top
 
 space