Sun Awareness

Sun safety isn't just for the beach.

Whether you're working outdoors, watching sport, walking the dog or enjoying a beer garden with friends, UV exposure can affect us all.

The facts are plain enough

Jersey enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in the British Isles.

Yet skin cancer rates here are higher than England, the South West and Guernsey.

Skin cancer is Jersey’s most common type of cancer.

That's why we're on a mission to make Jersey the most sun-safe place in the British Isles.

Five ways to save your skin

Never burn

Check the UV index
If UV is 3 or above, sun protection is recommended.

Seek shade
Especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are strongest.

Cover up
A hat, sunglasses and protective clothing all help.

Use SPF30+
Apply generously before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours.

Understanding the UV Index

The UV Index shows when the sun's rays are at their most harmful.

The higher the number, the faster skin damage occurs.

In Jersey, UV levels can be high enough to damage skin from as early as March through to October, even on cool or cloudy days.

When the UV Index reaches 3 or above, it's time to protect your skin.

1–2 Low
Protection usually not required.

3–5 Moderate
Limit sun 11am – 3pm; avoid long exposure. SPF 30+

6–7 High
Stay in shade 11am - 3pm; cover up and use SPF 30+

8–10 Very high
Avoid sun 11am – 3pm, cover skin with clothing, wear a hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+

11+ Extreme
Avoid being outside 11am – 3pm; cover skin with clothing, wear a hat, sunglasses and SPF 30+

Did you know?

More than 90% of UV radiation can still pass through cloud cover.

Know your skin

Most skin cancers can be treated successfully if they're found early.

Keep an eye out for:

• Changes in size
• Changes in colour
• Changes in shape
• New moles or marks
• Bleeding or itching
• Areas of skin that aren't healing or that recurrently scab

If something doesn't look right, speak to your GP.