2 or less: Low
A UV Index reading of 2 or less means low danger from the sun's
UV rays for the average person:
- Wear sunglasses on bright days. In winter, reflection off snow
can nearly double UV strength.
- If you burn easily, cover up and use sunscreen.
Look Out Below
Snow and water can reflect the sun's rays. Skiers and swimmers
should take special care. Wear sunglasses or goggles, and apply
sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Remember to protect areas
that could be exposed to UV rays by the sun's reflection, including
under the chin and nose.
3 - 5: Moderate
A UV Index reading of 3 to 5 means moderate risk of harm from
unprotected sun exposure.
- Take precautions, such as covering up, if you will be outside.
- Stay in shade near midday when the sun is strongest.
Me and My Shadow
An easy way to tell how much UV exposure you are getting is to
look for your shadow:
- If your shadow is taller than you are (in the early morning
and late afternoon), your UV exposure is likely to be low.
- If your shadow is shorter than you are (around midday), you
are being exposed to high levels of UV radiation. Seek shade
and protect your skin and eyes.
6 - 7: High
A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 means high risk of harm from unprotected
sun exposure. Apply a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 15. Wear
a wide-brim hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- Protection against sunburn is needed.
- Reduce time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
Made in the Shades
Wearing sunglasses protects the lids of your eyes as well as the
lens.
8 - 10: Very High
A UV Index reading of 8 to 10 means very high risk of harm from
unprotected sun exposure. Minimize sun exposure during midday hours,
from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Protect yourself by liberally applying a
sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Wear protective clothing
and sunglasses to protect the eyes.
- Take extra precautions. Unprotected skin will be damaged and
can burn quickly.
- Minimize sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Otherwise,
seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
Stay in the Game
Be careful during routine outdoor activities such as gardening
or playing sports. Remember that UV exposure is especially strong
if you are working or playing between the peak hours of 10 a.m.
and 4 p.m. Don't forget that spectators, as well as participants,
need to wear sunscreen and eye protection to avoid too much sun.
11+: Extreme
A UV Index reading of 11 or higher means extreme risk of harm
from unprotected sun exposure. Try to avoid sun exposure during
midday hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Apply sunscreen with an SPF
of at least 15 liberally every 2 hours.
- Take all precautions. Unprotected skin can burn in minutes.
Beachgoers should know that white sand and other bright surfaces
reflect UV and will increase UV exposure.
- Try to avoid sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Seek shade, cover up, wear a hat and sunglasses, and use sunscreen.
Beat the Heat
It is possible to go outside when the UV Index is 11 or higher.
Make sure you always seek shade, wear a hat, cover up, wear 99-100%
UV-blocking sunglasses, and use sunscreen. Or you can opt to stay
indoors and take the opportunity to relax with a good book rather
than risk dangerous levels of sun exposure.