Ultraviolet rays (UVR) are a public health concern because:
- Canadians have been increasing their time in the sun;
- UVR can harm all types of skin tones, as well as the eyes;
- Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Canada, and rates of melanoma are increasing.
Enjoy the sun safely: Protect your skin, protect your eyes
When heading outdoors:
Protect your skin |
|
Protect your eyes |
|
Additional recommendations |
|
Tips to make this easy
Shade |
.Good-quality shade includes dense vegetation and covered structures that offer shade from the side, and not just overhead, to protect against scattered UVR. .Cloth sources of shade, such as canopies and umbrellas, should have tightly woven fabric. . Additional personal protection (clothes, sunglasses and sunscreen) is recommended even when in the shade to protect against scattered UVR, especially on high UV Index days. |
Clothing |
.Hats with a wide brim that shade the head, face, ears and back of the neck are best. .In general, clothing provides better protection than sunscreen. .Tightly woven or UV-protective labelled clothing is recommended. |
Sunscreen |
|
Eye protection |
|
Babies and Children
Overexposure to UV radiation in childhood increases the risk of skin cancer:
- It is best to keep babies under one year out of direct sunlight at all times.
- Use a canopy or umbrella over your baby's stroller to give shade.
- Have children wear protective clothing, hat and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen should not be applied to a baby less than 6 months old.
Artificial Tanning Equipment
Provincial legislation bans the use of tanning beds by youth
The Ontario Skin Cancer Prevention Act (Tanning Beds) bans the use of tanning beds by youth under 18 years of age. This legislation protects youth from the proven dangers associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. As of May 1st, 2014, all tanning bed operators have to comply with this legislation and are subject to an inspection in locations where ultraviolet tanning treatments are offered, including but not limited to, tanning salons, spas and fitness centers.
All tanning bed operators are required by law to register their business with OPH. If you operate a tanning bed, you must register your business by contacting the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-69656) or by email at healthsante@ottawa.ca.
For more information, visit the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care website.
Links
For more information please contact Ottawa Public Health Information at 613-580-6744.
Contact Us