St Louis Catholic School Physical Education & Health

Summer Safety 101

“You can’t live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”

- John Wooden

Wear Sunscreen!

15, 30, and 40 represent different SPFs (Sun Protection Factor) sunscreens. In fact, SPF ranges from 2 to 100+. The Skin Cancer Foundation estimates that 80% of lifetime sun exposure occurs during childhood and that just one blistering sunburn can double the risk of getting melanoma later in life. Given the epidemic of skin cancer, sun safety should be used by people of all ages and races.  Using the methods below can help keep you and your family safe!

A - Avoid unprotected exposure during the peak UV hours between 10 AM and 4 PM.

W - Wear sun protective clothing including a shirt, a hat with a 3-inch brim and sunglasses. If possible, stay out of direct sunlight. Remember water reflects sunlight.

A – Generously apply broad spectrum sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 or higher (higher SPF= more protection) to all unprotected skin 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every 2 hours while in the sun.  Don’t forget to reapply after swimming or sweating.

R - Routinely check for and report suspicious changes to a physician. If you are on medication, check with your doctor about sun sensitivity. 

E - Express the need for sun protection to your family and community. Together we can help reverse the skin cancer epidemic!

Drink lots of Water!

Water plays an important role in the human body.  Water helps regulate body temperature at 98.6 degrees, delivers nutrients and oxygen to the cells, protects vital organs, and many more functions.  Nearly all of the major systems depend on water.  How much water should you drink in a day? Start by drinking half your body weight in ounces of water.  Remember during and after intense exercise (a person can sweat a quart of water!) to drink water to replace the fluids you lost.  Two general rules: (1) by the time you feel thirsty, you have probably lost 2 or more cups of water (2)  if your urine is clear or slightly yellow, great job your drinking enough water—if your urine is Crayola® Crayon yellow, grab your water bottle and get drinking

Have a really fun and safe summer.  Remember to Sip, Slap, Plop. 

Sip your water. Slap on your sunscreen. Plop on a hat and sunglasses. 

I look forward to seeing you in August!!!  Ms. Feldhake