Image courtesy of Brandi666 through a Creative Commons license

• According to the EPA, scientists predict that ozone layer depletion is currently at its peak.
• That means that more of the sun’s harmful UV rays are reaching the earth’s surface.
• The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) warns that severe sunburns in childhood greatly increase a person’s risk of skin cancer later in life.

1. Know your UV index. This number helps gauge how strong the sun is on a particular day, and should serve as a guide for assessing sunburn risk. When the UV index is 3 or higher, the National Foundation for Cancer Research stresses that it’s even more important to use an SPF of at least 15, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat, as well as UV protective clothing. A UV index over 8 indicates high risk—it’s best to stay out of the sun between the peak hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. You can find your UV rating on this daily map from Weather.com
   
   
2. Pack a sunscreen appropriate for young children. Try a tear-free product like Coppertone® Water BABIES® Pure and Simple, which contains no oils, fragrances, or dyes, and is also PABA- free. Also choose a product that stands up to the “active kid test”—make sure it’s waterproof and offers both UVA and UVB protection. These are also a good choice for adults with sensitive skin.
   
   
3. Be aqua aware. Summertime and water fun go hand in hand, but it’s important for parents to remember that the sun’s rays can bounce off water, making the risk of sunburn while swimming especially high. Even though a sunscreen may be labeled waterproof or water resistant, make sure to reapply after swimming, sweating, or toweling off. We can't stress enough how important this is, especially if you are vacationing in an unfamiliar area like Hawaii where the sun may be much stronger than it is at home.
   
   
4. Keep kids hydrated. Drink more water when spending time in the sun to help keep the body and skin hydrated. Toss a water bottle into your kids’ beach bags or backpacks. To keep it cold until later in the day, pour a little water out of the bottle and put it in the freezer overnight. (Ice expands, so if you don't pour a little water out of the bottle it will make the bottle bulge or break.) Throughout the day the ice will melt, leaving a nice cold bottle of water.

Enjoy the summer and be sun-wise!