Sun Safety

Beach Safety

Each year during the warmer months (June – September), Public Health Inspectors perform a weekly beach safety assessment and water quality assessment at eight local public beaches. Water samples are tested for E. coli bacterial counts. For E. coli results, call our Beach Hotline at 519-258-2146 ext. 1490

Sun Safety

Sun safety refers to the measures a person can take to be safe while outdoors in the sun. Everyone can (and should) practice sun safety.

Sun and Heat Safety in Windsor-Essex County

This report provides an overview of sun and heat safety in Windsor-Essex County using data from emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths (this data captures illnesses resulting from the direct effects of heat and sunlight). This report also uses data from the Rapid Risk Factor Surveillance System to provide a summary of sun safety behaviours and community support for shade in outdoor public places.

UV Index

The Ultraviolet Index (UV Index) is a measurement of the intensity of the sun’s rays. The higher the UV index, the more harm done by the sun to your skin, eyes, and immune system.

Sunscreen

The best way to protect yourself from damaging ultraviolet (UV) radiation is to cover up, limit your exposure at key times, seek shade, and cover any unprotected areas of the skin with sunscreen.

Vitamin D

When your skin is exposed to the sun, it’s able to make vitamin D. Your body needs vitamin D to keep your bones, muscles and teeth healthy. Having the proper amount of Vitamin D is especially important for children and the elderly. However, overexposure to the sun and using a tanning bed increases your chance of developing skin cancer and is not recommended. It is important to develop and maintain good sun protective habits. There are safer ways to maintain healthy Vitamin D levels than through ultraviolet (UV) exposure.  

You can get vitamin D from: