FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ENCOURAGES SUN SAFETY DURING DERBY WEEKEND

TALLAHASSEE—The first weekend in May marks the celebration of one of America’s most iconic summer traditions, the Kentucky Derby. Regardless of whether you are close to the derby action or simply celebrating in style in your own backyard, the Florida Department of Health encourages you to take precautions to protect your skin this weekend.

“Tip your hat” to these sun safety guidelines and add them to your Kentucky Derby weekend:

• Minimize sun exposure.
• Wear SPF 15 or higher and apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
• Use protective barriers such as hats, sunglasses and clothing to block full exposure.
• Use heightened precaution if you possess any of the following traits: pale skin; blond, red or light brown hair; if you have been previously treated for skin cancer; or if a family member has had skin cancer. 

If you plan to don a hat in the traditional derby style this weekend, use your wide-brimmed hat as a shield from the sun. Pair your hat with a pair of sunglasses, appropriate clothing and sunscreen and you are in the homestretch.

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The department works to protect, promote and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.floridahealth.gov.