0 to 2: Low |
A UV Index reading of 0 to 2 means low danger from the sun's UV rays
for the average person.
-
Wear sunglasses on bright days.
-
If you burn easily, cover up and use broad spectrum SPF 30+
sunscreen.
-
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which
reflect UV and increase exposure.
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3 to 5: Moderate |
A UV Index reading of 3 to 5 means moderate risk of harm from
unprotected sun exposure.
-
Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest.
-
If outdoors, wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and
UV-blocking sunglasses.
-
Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours,
even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
-
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which
reflect UV and increase exposure.
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6 to 7: High |
A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 means high risk of harm from unprotected
sun exposure. Protection against skin and eye damage is needed.
-
Reduce time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
-
If outdoors, seek shade and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed
hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
-
Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours,
even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
-
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which
reflect UV and increase exposure.
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8 to 10: Very High |
A UV Index reading of 8 to 10 means very high risk of harm from
unprotected sun exposure. Take extra precautions because unprotected
skin and eyes will be damaged and can burn quickly.
-
Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
-
If outdoors, seek shade and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed
hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
-
Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours,
even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
-
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which
reflect UV and increase exposure.
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|
11 or more: Extreme |
A UV Index reading of 11 or more means extreme risk of harm from
unprotected sun exposure. Take all precautions because unprotected skin
and eyes can burn in minutes.
-
Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
-
If outdoors, seek shade and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed
hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
-
Generously apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every 2 hours,
even on cloudy days, and after swimming or sweating.
-
Watch out for bright surfaces, like sand, water and snow, which
reflect UV and increase exposure.
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The Shadow Rule |
An easy way to tell how much UV exposure you are getting is to look for
your shadow:
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If your shadow is taller than you are (in the early morning and late
afternoon), your UV exposure is likely to be lower.
-
If your shadow is shorter than you are (around midday), you are
being exposed to higher levels of UV radiation. Seek shade and
protect your skin and eyes.
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