During the summer, it is often difficult to tell just how exposed to harmful UV radiation you are. The SeaWatch is designed to measure the current level of UV exposure and according to the pre-set alarms, sound an alarm to warn of increasing exposure. If you burn easily, spend a lot of time outdoors or need to watch your skin, then this watch will really help you out during the summer months.
The UVI is a simple measure of the UV radiation level at the Earth's surface. It has been designed to indicate the potential for adverse health effects and to encourage people to protect themselves. The values of the index range from zero upward and the higher the index value, the greater the potential for damage to the skin and eyes, and the less time it takes for harm to occur.
Everyone is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Small amounts of UV radiation are beneficial to people, and play an essential role in the production of vitamin D. However, overexposure to UV radiation is responsible for two major public health problems: skin cancer and cataracts.
The Basic Sun Protection Messages:
- Limit exposure during midday hours
- Seek shade
- Wear protective clothing. Wear a broad brimmed hat to protect the eyes, face and neck
- Protect the eyes with wrap-around-design sunglasses or sunglasses with side panels
- Use and reapply broad-spectrum sunscreen of sun protection factor 15+
- Protect babies and young children
Staying out of the sun, either indoors or in shaded areas, during the four hour period around solar noon when UV radiation levels are highest is an effective means of protection. Suncream should be applied to parts of the body that remain exposed, such as the face and hands. However, sunscreen represents a last line of defence, and should never be used to prolong the duration of sun exposure.
