Check the UV Index

Once you know your skin type, make sure you are aware of the UV Index for the day. The UV Index is a measure of how strong the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun is at a particular place on a particular day. This handy information will help you plan your daily sun protection needs.

The index ranges from zero upwards. The higher the value, the greater the amount of UVR and therefore, the greater the risk of skin and eye damage. The UV Alert is issued by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

The table below shows the different categories of UV Index values. Only at the low level (2 or less) is the UVR at a level which will not damage skin.

UV Index level		Exposure category	Precautions
	2 or less	Low	You can safely stay outdoors with minimal protection.
	3 to 5	Moderate	At these times, the level of UVR can cause skin damage. The five sun protection measures are easy ways to protect your skin.
	6 to 7	High	At these times, the level of UVR can cause skin damage. The five sun protection measures are easy ways to protect your skin
	8 to 10	Very High	This is when UVR is at its highest and most dangerous. At these times, you should try to avoid being outdoors altogether and if outdoors, the five sun protection measures are required.
	11 or higher	Extreme	This is when UVR is at its highest and most dangerous. At these times, you should try to avoid being outdoors altogether and if outdoors, the five sun protection measures are required.
Source: Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency

Remember, UVR cannot be seen or felt and may be high even on cool or cloudy days. When you are checking the weather forecast before you go out, check the UV Index at the same time. Remember to follow the five easy ways to protect your skin from sun damage, particularly whenever the UV Index is three and above.

Check the UV Index in your city today: www.bom.gov.au/products/uvindex_national.shtml

Interesting links:
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency: Australian UV Index: www.arpansa.gov.au/uvindex/daily/ausuvindex.htm

Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency: Ultraviolet radiation reference: www.arpansa.gov.au/radiationprotection/factsheets/is_UVIndex.cfm