ULTRA-VIOLET RADIATION - HARMFUL EFFECTS AND BENEFITS

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has cautioned people to protect themselves against UV light 'whenever you can see your shadow'. Some of the common preventive measures that need to be followed are:

Avoid overexposure to sunlight especially between 10 am to 4 pm when the UV rays are at their strongest

If exposed to the sun, make sure to be adequately protected by wearing the appropriate clothing and protective covering like hats

Make sure to protect your eyes from overexposure by wearing suitable sunglasses

Ensure that you do not step out into the sunlight without the application of a generous coating of sunscreen

Make sure to carry an umbrella when out in the sun

Drink adequate water to prevent dehydration and sunburn, especially during summer

Avoid artificial means of tanning, such as the use of sun- tan beds

If blisters due to over exposure persists, make sure to approach your neighborhood GP or a dermatologist, to ensure that the condition does not worsen

The strength of UV rays can vary from the time of day or season. In certain countries one can check the local UV index before going outdoors to protect against too much sun's UV radiation. The Scale is reported from 1 to 15.

Scale of 2 or below - safe to be in the sun without needing sun protection.

Scale 3 and 7 - Protection of skin is advised with sunscreen creams, a shirt and a hat. Eyes should be protected with UV-absorbant sunglasses and try to stay in the shade at midday.

Scale of 8 and above - If possible stay indoors or in shade. If going out extra protection from UV rays is advised and wearing sunscreen, shirt, hat and sunglasses becomes a must.

To check the UV index for your area (mostly USA) you can visit the following website - http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindex.html