Vacations Can Be Extreme

Thunder Bay's current temperature and UV Index:

 

Don’t let a sunburn ruin your vacation! 

Sunburns can happen in minutes during a trip to sunny destinations where the UV index is Extreme (11+). More information can be found by reading below.

Extreme UV Index

Unlike Canada, many tropical destinations can have a UV Index reading of 11+ (Extreme):

  • The sun’s rays are much stronger in the tropics and skin damage can happen fast
  • Sunlight reflects off of sand, water, snow, ice and pavement and can double the strength of UV rays
  • Clouds still permit between 50% to 80% of UV rays to reach your skin

 

How to Protect Yourself

  • Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
  • Take frequent breaks from the sun
  • Reapply sunscreen often
  • Plan excursions for early or later in the day

Remember: Pre-tanning or getting a base tan does not protect you from sunburns or toughen up your skin.

 

Vitamin D and Sun Exposure

In 2016, the National Steering Committee for Consensus on Content for Sun Safety Messages (28 participant organizations) released the following information related to Vitamin D and Sun Exposure:

“Intentional Ultraviolet radiation exposure to meet vitamin D requirements is not recommended.”

“Use sources of vitamin D from dietary sources including fortified foods and vitamin D supplements”

 

Resources

Check out our Extreme UV Index campaign resources:

Extreme UV Index Wallet Brochure
Vacations can be Extreme Wallet Card (See note below)

 

Vacations Can Be Extreme Poster
Vacations can be Extreme Poster (See note below)

 

Note: Printed copies of the above resources can be requested through our Contact page.

 

For Further Information

Call the Family Health program: (807) 625-5900

or Toll-free 1-888-294-6630

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