UV Index

Sun protection should be used when the ultraviolet (UV) index reaches 3 or above. The UV index shows the level of UV radiation and the potential danger of sun exposure. The sun's rays are strongest at the higher UV numbers.

 0 to 2 Low

• Wear sunglasses when outdoors all year round. If outside for more than one hour, cover up and use sunscreen.

 3 to 5 Moderate

• Take precautions.
• Cover up and apply sunscreen especially if you will be outside for 30 minutes or more.
• Look for shade near midday when the sun is strongest.

 6 to 7 High

• Protection required.
• Reduce time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Seek shade, cover up, and apply sunscreen.

 8 to 10 Very high

• Extra precautions required--unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn quickly.
• Limit time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Seek shade, cover up, and apply sunscreen.

 11 and above Extreme

• Take full precautions--unprotected skin will be damaged and can burn in minutes.
• Avoid time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Seek shade, cover up, and apply sunscreen.\

Resources

• The UV Index and Sun Safety - Government of Canada