The UV Index is a valuable reminder to be careful in the sun. But are you taking as much notice of it as you should? Canadian scientists developed the UV Index in 1992 to inform about the strength of the sun’s UV rays and raise awareness about taking action to protect your health. It now broadcasts its sun safety message in 26 countries, with the World Meteorological Organization and World Health Organization adopting it in 1994 as the international standard for weather services across the globe.
Why is the UV Index important?
UVB radiation – even on a cloudy day – can cause a range of debilitating conditions. It’s also cumulative, so you may not know you’ve had too much until it’s too late. According to the World Meteorological Organization, the Index has helped save lives by increasing public awareness of the effects of the sun’s damaging UV rays. Over-exposure to UVB can cause sunburn, cataracts and potential immune system suppression. UVA penetrates deep into the skin causing damage like wrinkles, discoloration and aging. Sunburn, whether severe or mild, can cause permanent skin damage.
However, contrary to popular belief, you can’t judge UV levels by how hot it is outside. Rather, latitude, ozone, cloud, reflection from surfaces, time of year and time of day all play a role in determining UV levels. In fact, UV levels can be higher on a cloudy day. And that’s why you should always check the UV Index before you go outside.
Don’t Fry Day: When to be extra careful
When the UV Index reaches 3, it’s time to make sure you’re being sensible in the sun. That means you should enact your five-step sun smart plan. The Bureau of Meteorology recommends you should protect yourself when UV radiation reaches 3 or more. Remember, on a cloudy day it can reach 8 or more, so even if the temperature’s low you could be at risk of UV damage.
- Slip on some sun-protective clothing – cover as much skin as possible!
- Slop on SPF30+ sunscreen – choose one that’s broad spectrum and water-resistant. Remember to put it on around 20 minutes before you head outdoors and reapply every two hours. It’s a great idea to make putting on sunscreen a morning ritual and carry a small bottle with you for regular touch-ups – especially if your family has a history of skin cancer.
- Slap on a hat – find one that’s large enough to protect your entire face, head, neck and ears – baseball caps don’t count!
- Seek shade – stay inside, lounge under a large tree or carry your own sun umbrella, just be wary that sometimes UVB radiation reflected from surfaces like water and metal can be far more intense.
- Slide on some sunglasses – but please check that they comply with national UV protection standards, or you’ll risk serious damage to your vision. We always recommend wearing sunglasses, and especially a well known sporting/ outdoor brand like IC! Berlin sunglasses, as they have been tried and tested to the highest levels.
What if you haven’t checked the UV Index today?
A simple way to tell how much UV exposure you’re likely to get is to look for your shadow. If it’s taller than you, your UV exposure will probably be lower. The shorter your shadow, the higher your UV exposure.
The sunshine vitamin, the UV index and you
Many people are worried about their Vitamin D levels these days, so they’re going out in the sun unprotected to try and beef them up. However, it’s important to strike a healthy balance between protection and prevention. Yes, you need to get some sun to ensure optimum Vitamin D levels. But on days where the UV Index is 3 or above, you’re in more danger of eye and skin damage and unlikely to develop Vitamin D deficiency.