Safe in the Summertime

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Safe in the Summertime

One of the first things you learn when you work with canopies is that weather protection isn’t just about providing shelter from rain and snow. In fact, supplying shade from the sun in the spring and summer is a way more important service than keeping people dry as they dash between buildings.

Here’s the reason why. There are over 15,000 new cases of melanoma skin cancer in the UK every year and they are expected to rise 7% by 2035. (Source: Cancer Research figures 2013- 2015). Most cases are treatable and recovery rates are high, with 90% of those diagnosed surviving. Even so there are still around 2500 deaths each year.

And the amazing fact is, according to Cancer Research UK, 86% of cases are preventable. That means that where the sun is concerned we can control our own health. To do that we need to make smart choices to ensure we stay safe.

This is a message we are keen to promote through our work with schools and nurseries. If we can raise awareness of being safe in the sun then that’s a good thing. And if we can do that in the school environment then even better, as that will hopefully set up good habits and knowledge that will stay with children as they grow into adulthood.

That is why we will be launching our Sun Safety Campaign on April 23. Fronted by our sun safe super hero, Shade Man the campaign will provide tips, advice, activities and fun to help schools learn about staying safe in the sun but also enjoy the outdoors and all that it has to offer.

Our popular Sun Safe Activity pack will be available soon. In the meantime, you can start your preparation for the summer by following Shade Man on Twitter where he will be posting tips and updates. Find him here: @ableshademan

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Safe in the Summertime

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