Health

Today is Not Friday, It’s “No Fry Day”

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Today is no ordinary Friday. It’s “No Fry Day.”

Huh?

With the holiday weekend – and the official start to summer right around the corner – the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) is teaming up with the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and other federal agencies to declare today “No Fry Day” and encourage sun safety awareness.

“No Fry Day is a way to remind people that they should protect their skin at all times, especially in our region, where enjoying the outdoors is a big part of summer, ” said Eric McDonald, MD, San Diego County deputy public health officer. “People need to be ‘sun safe’ and aware of heat and sun exposure during the summer months.”

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and can develop from overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. More than 3.5 million new cases of skin cancers are diagnosed in more than 2.2 million people annually, according to the Council.

“UV radiation and heat are both silent killers,” said McDonald. “People tend to forget that high UV indexes can occur even when it’s not particularly hot and you can get sunburned even on a cloudy day.”

Over-exposure to UV radiation and heat-related illnesses can be prevented. The first step is to be aware of UV radiation and excessive heat forecasts.

The Council recommends ten tips to avoid unhealthy exposure to UV radiation and exposure to excessive heat:

1.       Generously apply sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher that provides broad spectrum (both UVA and UVB rays) protection.

2.       Slow down. Strenuous work or recreational activities should be reduced or eliminated during the hottest part of the day.

3.       If you must work during the hotter periods of the day, get acclimated by gradually increasing outdoor activities so your body adjusts to the hot conditions.

4.       Dress in lightweight clothing and wear UV-blocking sunglasses and a hat with at least a 2- to 3-inch brim all around.

5.       Drink plenty of water or other non-alcoholic fluids. Drinking alcohol should be avoided.

6.       Do not take salt tablets unless directed by a physician.

7.       Take frequent breaks during work or play. Spend more time in air-conditioned places and seek shade, especially during mid-day hours. Check out the County’s free Cool Zone locations this summer. Locations can be found at www.CoolZones.org.

8.        Check the UV index when planning outdoor activities to prevent overexposure to the sun.

9.       Know what the signs and symptoms of heat illness are. Check on those who work outside, particularly if they are required to wear protective suits.

10.   Pay attention to elderly persons, small children, medically fragile or overweight individuals.

Tom Christensen is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office. Contact