High UV Indexes Expected for Rest of the Week

Editor's note: The UV index for Hinsdale Wednesday according to Weather.com is a 9 out of 11, which the site labels as "very high." Thursday and Friday are expected to be sunny with high UV indexes, as well—8 for Thursday; 9 for Friday. (For more info on the UV index, visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency website.) 

In light of these numbers, Patch thought it appropriate to publish the following release sent out Wednesday morning by the DuPage County Health Department regarding responsible UV protection:

The July 4th weekend means fun-in-the-sun, but it could also lead to overexposure of dangerous ultraviolet (UV)  radiation, which is harmful to skin. For those planning on being outdoors, the DuPage County Health Department has some helpful summer-sun safety tips. 

While overexposure to UV radiation can cause temporary, painful sunburn, it can also lead to more serious, long-term, health problems such as skin cancer, premature aging, cataracts, eye damage and immune system suppression. Children are particularly at risk.  

By following these simple steps, residents can enjoy their time in the sun while also protecting themselves from UV overexposure:

• Generously apply sunscreen: about one ounce to cover all exposed skin 20 minutes before going outside. Sunscreen should have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 SPF and provide protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. Reapply every two hours, even on cloudy days and after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when possible.
• Seek shade when possible and remember that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Use extra caution near water or sand, which reflect the damaging rays of the sun, which can increase your chance of sunburn.
• Check the UV Index, which provides information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent sun overexposure. The UV Index forecast is issued daily by the National Weather Service and EPA.