Summertime is a favorite time of the year for many people. The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and people are able to be outside all day. They may be on vacation, playing, working, or attending sporting events or concerts. And we know that water plays a major role as lots of people like to spend their summers near or on the water. But with all of this outdoor time, it is important to be aware of how to stay safe from sun exposure, so the Sea Tow Foundation put together these 6 tips for sun safety.

1. Slap on a hat.A hat can protect your head and scalp from sun exposure as well. Skin cancer is fairly common on the tips of the ears and the top of the head, even for people who have a full head of hair. Finding a good hat with a large brim is important and, just like the clothing, many hats come with SPF fabric to help provide additional safety. Plus, a hat is a great way to hide that “boat hair” that comes from riding in the wind all day long.
   
   
2. Slide on sunglasses. The sun’s rays, especially if reflecting off the water, can be very bright. Sustained exposure to this without eye protection can result in damage to the retinas and could cause seeing spots over your vision on a permanent basis. Sunglasses should be polarized to prevent UV rays and reduce the glare and reflections. Including a sunglasses strap is an inexpensive way to make sure that your glasses don’t fall off and sink in the water when your boat hits a wake.
   
   
3. Slop on sunscreen.The sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UV) rays can cause harmful effects to our skin. Sunscreen reduces the risk of sunburn and, with every sunburn, the risk of developing skin cancer increases. Sunscreen can also help prevent the development of wrinkles and discolorations as you age. Even on a cloudy day, it is important to wear sunscreen. Finding sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF is good, but the higher numbers are even better and it is important to make sure to reapply every 2 hours.
   
   
4. Slip on a shirt. When the sun is intense and you are worried about getting burned, it is important to put on clothing that can protect your skin from the sun’s rays. Many clothing manufacturers are now selling shirts and other clothing items that contain SPF protection, so these are a good option to look for. And, even long sleeves can feel cool under the hot sun thanks to the new technology involved in making the fabric.
   
   
5. Seek shade. When the sun is at its highest point in the sky from 10 am to 2 pm, it is important to find shade and stay out of the direct sun as much as possible. This may mean slowing down and putting up the Bimini top on the boat, using an umbrella to provide shade, or going below deck during this time frame. Other options include planning early morning trips or late afternoon and evening trips to avoid the middle-of-the-day exposure.
   
   
6. Sip non-alcoholic beverages. Spending the day in the hot sun makes you more likely to become dehydrated. Alcohol will not make this situation better and can be dangerous as alcohol causes your body to remove fluids from your organs at a much quicker rate than other liquids. As a result, you can end up passing up or can even develop alcohol poisoning. The best options for a hot day in the sun is to drink water, juice, and sports drinks that replenish electrolytes.

The summer can be a lot of fun, as long as you find ways to be safe from sun exposure. Do you have any other tips that you’d recommend adding? Add your tip in the comments section below.