HEALTH

LET’S BE SUNSMART

I usually bring SUNSMART behaviour to the attention of our families around this time of the year.

Our McKinnon families are no different than others and in a regular year they participate in sporting events as players or spectators. We also attend outdoor activities throughout the year. Having been in lockdown for so long again this year means we may not have been out and about as much as usual and therefore we are more susceptible to sunburn.

Part of our faces has been covered for many days without any sun upon it as a result of wearing masks. Therefore, this is a timely reminder for our students to be SunSmart.

We are frequently told by the Cancer Council of Australia that the sun’s harmful rays can have a damaging effect on not only our skin but on our overall health. Significant UV exposure occurs during childhood and adolescence due to the comparative sensitivity of the skin. Protection from overexposure can reduce their risk of developing skin and eye damage and skin cancer later in life.

At McKinnon, we do have adequate shade available for our students at school in our passive areas, but many choose to walk around or play sport during lunchtime and recess. 

For best protection during the daily sun protection times (when the UV level is 3 or higher) use all five SunSmart steps below:

• SLIP on clothing 
• SLOP on SPF30 (or higher) broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen 
• SLAP on a hat 
• SEEK shade 
• SLIDE on sunglasses.

The Cancer Council Australia has a SunSmart app is a great way to check the UV Index when you are out and about.

iPhone users can download it at the iTunes App Store and Android users at the Google Play store.

Enjoy the sunny days and have a great, safe and happy holiday season.

Best wishes to all.

Susan Wilken

Health Learning Area Manager