The scorching heat continues! Before you and your kiddos head out, don’t forget these safety basics to protect yourselves from the sun:

• Use sunscreen with a SPF # of at least 30! Sunscreen not only protects against sun damage but also against wind damage by acting as a shield against irritants.

• No tanning oils or salons! Tanning increases the risk of melanoma and accelerates skin aging.

• Apply sunscreen every two hours to make sure you’re protected. Make sure your kids reapply if they have been sweating or swimming.

• Remember the sun is everywhere, protect your entire body, even your hands, nose and ears.

• Try to limit your time in the sun during the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

• Make sure your family drinks plenty of water throughout the day.

• Should a sunburn occur, remove your child from the sun right away. Give him extra fluids for the next two to three days. Use moisturizing creams or aloe gel to provide comfort. When going outside, all sunburned areas should be fully covered to protect your child from the sun until healed. Seek emergency help if the sunburn forms blisters, or your child is in extreme pain, has a headache, fever or chills, after getting sunburned.