Just as lifeguards dedicate their profession to the safety of swimmers, MDSolarSciences is committed to the safety and prevention of skin cancer for all individuals.
As research reveals, due to prolonged exposure to UV rays and fundamental factors involved with their job, lifeguards have an observable increase in susceptibility to skin cancer resulting from extensive exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Thus, they must pay close attention to understanding and performing sun safety preventative measures.
Geared towards educating both lifeguard instructors as well as their team, MDSolarSciences created the following guidelines in detail:
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Choose the Right Sun ProtectionFirst and foremost, the most beneficial standard to follow is applying a sunscreen that adheres to the new FDA regulations. As FDA experts advise, choose a sweat and water-resistant sunscreen that provides UVA/UVB broad-spectrum protection. (We recommend our SPF 40 Quick Dry Body Spray—since your job requires you to be constantly ready at any moment, our quick-dry formula is perfect for easy, swift and seamless application. You’ll also find the Ultra-Sport Stick a handy essential too.) |
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ReapplyAs a lifeguard, you tend to spend considerably more time in the sun than most individuals. In addition, your job requires an abundance of physical activity; and, as a result, you’re prone to excessive sweating. Add to that the fact that you’re in and out of the water throughout the day, and all three factors combined makes for a vulnerable situation in the sun. Whether your work environment is pool-side or on the beach, the sunscreen you apply on your skin is expected to wear off quite frequently—an occupational hazard exhibited by many in your field. Consequently, it is essential to remember to reapply sunscreen as directed, especially after sweating and when leaving the pool or ocean, as these two factors will cause your sunscreen to wear off sooner and more rapidly than usual. |
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EducateA study published in the Archives of Dermatology finds of the sun safety habits exhibited by lifeguards finds that organizations that implement peer-driven, social programs aimed at educating lifeguards (employees, team members and so forth) are extremely effective in enhancing lifeguards’ sun safety practices. Further research shows these programs do appreciably decrease a lifeguard’s chance of skin damage resulting from exposure to UVA and UVB rays. If you are a chief lifeguard instructor, we suggest putting into practice a Sunscreen and Sun Safety 101 program into action if your organization has yet to do so. If you’re a lifeguard, a good idea would be to suggest taking a similar program to your organization, employer and colleagues. |
For more information on sun safety and tips, see 7 Sun Safe Tips.
