Sun Safe in Victoria

In Australia, 15 minutes in the sun is sometimes all it takes for your skin to burn. Too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, eye damage and skin cancer - even on cool, cloudy days. UV rays are also reflected off concrete, sand, snow and water.

Protect yourself from Australia's strong sun in a few
easy steps:

• Slip on sun protective clothing
• Slop on SPF 30+ broad spectrum sunscreen, at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours outdoors
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck and ears
• Seek shade
• Slide on sunglasses

Snow
At high altitude there is the risk of sunburn, even on cold or cloudy days. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and goggles or sunglasses to block UV light and sun reflected off the snow.

Stay Informed
A SunSmart UV Alert is issued by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) when the UV Index is forecast to reach '3' and above. It is reported in most daily newspapers, television and radio weather forecasts in Australia.

When UV Index levels reach '3' (moderate) and above, you need sun protection.

In Victoria from September to April, UV Index levels reach '3' and above for most of the day. Take extra care from 10.00am to 2.00pm (11.00am to 3.00pm daylight saving time) when UV levels are highest.

From May to August, UV Index levels in Victoria are usually low (below '3'). Sun protection may still be needed in alpine regions or near snow or water.