Although many of us may enjoy basking in the warming rays during a summer afternoon playing cricket, sun safety is of critical importance.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Northern Ireland, accounting for 31% of all cancer patients diagnosed. As we enter into the summer months, the Public Health Agency and Cancer Focus NI have created the Be UV Aware initiative to warn against the dangers of overexposure to UV light whilst engaging in outdoor activities — such as playing cricket!
Be UV Aware Initiative
The Solar UV Index shows how much solar radiation is reaching us from the sun and how careful we need to be. UV levels vary with the seasons and time of day, but when the UV index is three or above we need to protect our skin and eyes. Check the UV index forecast at www.metoffice.gov.uk/uv. In Northern Ireland, UV light exposure is highest between March and October, the strongest coming between 11am and 3pm. When UV light exposure is over three on the index, the Be UV Aware initiative recommends taking the following precautions: seek shade, cover up, wear a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen (See the informative poster below).
Please read the information provided to ensure your safety in the sun whilst playing cricket. For more information, visit: