When to be on the red alert
Given the high and extreme UV levels that are reached across Victoria and Australia whenever the UV is 3 and above, sun protection is required. Below are some typical activities where Australians report they have got sun damage such as sunburn and tanning.
- Working outdoors: spending long periods of time working outdoors, year after year, can put you at a high risk of skin cancer. Research shows outdoor workers receive five to 10 times more sun exposure each year than indoor workers [1]. Find resources, policies and guidelines to help employers and local government protect workers and communities.
- Playing or watching sport: many spring and summer sports are played during times when UV levels are high to extreme. Don't get a red card for red raw skin and check out our top tips for sports clubs.
- Attending a summertime outdoor event or festival: many summer events are held at times when UV levels are strong enough to damage the skin and the eyes.
- Around water or near the snow (and high altitudes): Reflective surfaces, such as water and snow, increase your risk of sun damage as these surfaces also reflect UV. In some cases you can almost get a double dose of UV – directly from the sun and then through reflection.
- In the car: Cars generally provide good protection but you can still get sunburnt when in the car for a long time. Wearing sunscreen in the car is the best way to prevent sunburn. Babies and toddlers can be protected with a window shade visor. Driving sleeves can be purchased from the Cancer Council shop. Clear or tinted films added to side windows can reduce the amount of UV entering the car. Cancer Council Australia's position statement on window tinting provides more information to guide decision-making about using window tinting for sun protection.
[1] Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA). Resource guide for UV protective products. Yallambie: Commonwealth of Australia, 2003.
