The forecast calls for sun this holiday weekend, so pack up the kids, dogs or bikes in the minivan and head into the great wide open… And don't forget the sunscreen.
That last little PSA is brought to you by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and several other groups, which have dubbed May 25th "Don't Fry Day." Their catchy advice: Remember to slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher, slap on a hat, and wrap on sunglasses.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States and the most common cancer among people in their 20s, according to EPA. One American dies every hour from melanoma, the deadliest form of cancer.
EPA's SunWise program encourages young people to practice safe habits when outside. The site encourages people to check the ultraviolet, or UV, index before and seek shade during outings. Another, yet no less important, tip is to wear protective clothing and reapply sunscreen every two hours. Your skin – and your mom – will thank you.
Oxbow Park, Blue Lake and other Metro parks and open spaces are typically packed each Memorial Day weekend. Enjoy the spring sun, and remember to slip, slop, slap and wrap.