Stay Safe This Memorial Day: Embrace 'Don't Fry Day' for Sun Safety

(WNY News Now) – MAYVILLE, NY – As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Chautauqua County Health Department, in collaboration with the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention, is promoting “Don’t Fry Day” today before Memorial Day weekend. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and encourage preventive measures against skin injuries.

Understanding the Risks of UV Radiation

Skin cancer remains the most common cancer in the United States, yet it is highly preventable. UV radiation can lead to severe health issues such as skin cancer, premature aging, eye damage, and immune system suppression. With summer just around the corner, the Chautauqua County Health Department wants to ensure that residents can enjoy outdoor activities while prioritizing sun safety.

“We welcome the summer season and all of the fun options it provides for moving more outdoors. In addition to the warmth and fun it supplies, sunshine is a great source of Vitamin D but it is important to prioritize safety, as well,” says Chautauqua County Public Health Director Lacey Wilson. “Don’t Fry Day serves as a vital reminder for everyone to take preventive measures against the potentially harmful effects of UV radiation. By following simple sun safety tips, we can significantly reduce our risk of skin cancer and other sun-related health problems.”

Sun Safety Tips for a Healthier Summer

The Chautauqua County Health Department encourages everyone to follow these sun safety tips, adapted from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):

Slip! Slop! Slap! and Wrap!: Slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, and wrap on sunglasses to protect your eyes.
Do NOT burn: Sunburns greatly increase the risk of developing skin cancer, particularly in children.
Avoid tanning beds: UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds causes skin cancer and accelerates skin aging.
Generously apply sunscreen: Use about one ounce to cover all exposed skin. Choose sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and broad-spectrum protection. Reapply every two hours, and after swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing: When possible, wear clothing that covers, along with wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
Seek shade: The sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Seek shade when necessary to reduce UV exposure.
Use extra caution near reflective surfaces: Water, snow, and sand reflect the sun’s rays, increasing the chance of sunburn.
Check the UV index: The UV Index provides crucial information to help plan outdoor activities and avoid overexposure. It is issued daily by the National Weather Service and the EPA.
Get vitamin D safely: Do not over-expose your skin to the sun to increase Vitamin D levels. Consult with your doctor about adding a Vitamin D supplement if needed.