Sun protection - shade

Spend time in the shade between eleven and three

One of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays is to find shade under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors.

UV rays are invisible and cannot be felt on the skin. They penetrate deeply into our cells, causing changes that lead to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage and skin cancer.

Why 11am-3pm?

The sun's UV rays are strongest in the hours around midday. This is why it's best to spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.

Other things that affect the amount of UV rays are the:

• time of year - the highest risk months in the UK are May to September. In Australia, November to February are the danger months. Near the equator, there are strong UV rays all year round.
• altitude - UV rays are stronger the higher you go. So skiers and mountaineers beware!
• cloud cover - you can still burn on a day when there is thin or scattered cloud, but heavy cloud does offer protection.
• reflection - up to 85 per cent of UV rays can be reflected back from snow, sand, cement and water.

You can find out more about UV rays in the UV index section.

Providing shade

You can find or create shade in many different ways. For example:

• trees and foliage
• umbrellas and parasols
• canopies and awnings
• tents and shelters
• wide-brimmed hats

Shade is particularly important for children. Go to the shade for schools section to find out more about providing shade in school.

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