Sun Safety: Essential Tips for the Arizona Sun

Whether you're diving into pool cleaning, hiring a pool service, or fixing that pool repair you've been putting off, living in Arizona means plenty of sunny days. While spending time outside is a great way to get active, de-stress, and absorb vitamin D, it's essential to remember sun safety. Exposure to UV rays can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. Here’s what you need to know.

The Basics of UV Rays

Most skin cancers are due to excessive UV exposure. These invisible rays come from the sun but also from sources "near me," like tanning beds and sunlamps. It's a misconception that only summer days can be harmful. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can affect you. Surprisingly, surfaces like water, cement, and sand can reflect these rays, intensifying exposure.

Between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daylight saving time (or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. standard time) is when UV rays are at their peak in the continental U.S. Always check the UV Index – if it’s 3 or higher in your area, take precautions.

Sun Safety Measures

1. Seek Shade: Whether you're on a pool cleaning job or taking a break, always look for shade, especially under umbrellas, trees, or shelters. Even in shade, combine other protective methods for optimal safety.

2. Dress Smartly: Opt for long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or skirts when possible. Tightly woven fabrics provide excellent UV protection. And remember, while a wet T-shirt might feel cool, it offers less UV protection than when it’s dry.

3. Hats Are Your Friend: A hat with a full brim shades your face, ears, and neck. Look for tightly woven fabrics like canvas and avoid straw hats with visible holes.

4. Wear Sunglasses: Sunglasses aren't just a fashion statement. They shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, reducing cataract risks and protecting the delicate skin around your eyes. Ensure your sunglasses block both UVA and UVB rays.

5. Use Sunscreen: Before heading to your pool service appointment or any outdoor activity, apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Reapply after two hours or after swimming or sweating. Sunscreens are not recommended for infants under six months.

Sun Safety Beyond Personal Care

If you're an employer, especially in Arizona, remember the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Outdoor workers are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the sun. Ensuring their protection not only creates a safe work environment but can also increase productivity. Providing shade, allowing breaks, and promoting sun-safe behaviors can help.

Schools too have a role to play. With recess and other outdoor activities, students are exposed to UV rays. Schools can increase shaded areas, promote sun-safe habits, and implement educational programs.

A Word on Tanning and UV Radiation

While a tan might seem like a healthy glow, it's the skin's response to UV damage. Both UVA and UVB rays from the sun can cause skin damage. UVA leads to aging, wrinkling, and a loss of elasticity, while UVB poses a higher skin cancer risk. Tanning doesn't offer protection against skin cancer.

In Conclusion

Sun safety is not limited to the beach or poolside. It's essential every day, especially in sunny states like Arizona. Whether you're searching for "pool repair near me" or planning a day out, remember these tips. Your skin will thank you.