Summertime means fun in the sun for many in Greater Sudbury.

But the same sun that draws us out at the peak of summer is a hazard and we all must take precautions as we strive to beat the heat, Mayor Marianne Matichuk warns.

“Outdoor physical activity is very important, especially in Greater Sudbury where there’s so much to do,” Matichuk said in a July 24 press release. “But it’s equally important to exercise precaution when spending time in the sun in order to reduce the risk of experiencing heat exhaustion and heat stroke and of developing longer-term skin problems.”

Those most at risk for developing heat-related illnesses during periods of hot, humid weather include the very young, the elderly, people who exercise vigorously or who are involved in strenuous work outdoors for prolonged periods, and the chronically ill.

To beat the heat, the city offers seven public beaches — Bell Park, Moonlight, Kalmo, Meatbird Lake, Capreol, Nephawin and Whitewater — and five splash pads — Cote Park in Azilda, Memorial Park in Sudbury, O’Connor Playground, Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre and the Kinsmen Sports Complex in Walden.

“If you’re outside, though, remember to be extra cautious about limiting children’s direct exposure to sunlight,” Matichuk said.

The city also has five indoor swimming pools — Gatchell Pool, Howard Armstrong Recreation Centre, Nickel District Pool, Onaping Falls Pool and R.G. Dow Pool in Copper Cliff.

Through the city’s award-winning Feel Free to Feel Fit program, families are offered one free family swim a week at all five pools, as well as free bus tickets.

The city also has 13 libraries and citizen service outlets at which residents are always welcome to stop and cool down. For more information on all city facilities, programs and hours, call 311.

Matichuk also reminds the community that prolonged sun exposure, heat stroke and heat exhaustion are workplace safety issues.

“For road and construction workers, lawn and garden workers, lifeguards and others who work outside all day, every day, being conscious of the dangers the sun poses is crucial,” she said.

It's easy to protect yourself from damaging UV rays. Simply follow the Canadian Cancer Society's SunSense guidelines:
-Reduce sun exposure between the hours of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun is at its peak. The rule of thumb is that when your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun is at or nearing its peak;
-Remain in the shade when possible;
-Wear close-weave, light coloured fabric and a wide-brimmed hat;
-Protect your eyes with sunglasses that provide 100 per cent UV protection;
-Wear sunscreen and lip balm with a SPF of 30 or higher if you work outdoors, and 15 or higher whenever you are outside.

Posted by Arron Pickard