Sun Safety on Don't Fry Day

With real summer weather ambling toward the present, the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have deemed the Friday before Memorial Day as Don't Fry Day. 

Granted, Friday's weather in Riverdale Park will be 83 degrees.

According to an official release from the EPA, one American dies every hour from skin cancer. 

“Many people still do not realize that unprotected sun exposure can lead to skin cancer and other health problems,” said Gina McCarthy, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation. “Simple steps such as using sunscreen, putting on sunglasses or wearing a hat can protect us and our families, while still enjoying the great outdoors.”

By all means, enjoy your Memorial Day. Take a . Check out a . Throw a . But at the very least, consider these tips from the EPA to protect yourself while doing so.

1. Slip, Slop, Slap, Wrap. Slip on a shirt. Slop on SPF 15+ sunscreen. Slap on a hat and wrap on sunglasses to protect your body from overexposure to the sun.

2. Seek shade. Find shade during the sun’s peak hours between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to reduce the risk of too much sun exposure.

3. Check the UV Index. When planning outdoor activities, check the UV Index to identify the times that pose the greatest risk for overexposure to the sun.

For more information on Don't Fry Day, click here.