Awnings Help Make It Safer (NAPS)-—-Like many longawaited movies, the sun gets a lot of attention--and seme mixed reviews. We know the sun feels good (at least at first and lifts our spirits. The sun also provides a major source of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb the calcium needed for healthier bones. And, there’s even some evi- dence that taking in seasonal sun helps battle winter blues when the weather turns cold. At the same time, the sun has earned a well-deserved bad rap. All ultraviolet (UV) rays damage the skin. Sun-tanning will eventually make skin thickened and tough, with irregular brownareas, wrinkles, and dilated blood vessels. So what’s the solution? How can we balance safety with the sunshine our bodies and minds crave? Try keeping thesetips im mind: No kidding: Sun protection is especially important for children, because experts estimate that 80 percent of lifetime sun exposure happens before age 18. If you’re a parent or grandparent, keep kids safe with sunscreen and shade. * Find a happy medium: There’s no need to forego the outdoors completely, and if you’ve already invested in a deck or atio, you probably wouldn’t dream of it! Consider installing a retractable awning to provide protection and make the most of your outdoor space. Check cut www.sunsetter.com for styles, col- ors, and other awning inforraation. Made in the shade: Experts suggest avoiding the sun when it’s at its strongest-—between 10 AM and 3 PM. If vour patio or deck heats up during the sun’s peak hours, be careful! Apply sunscreen; wear protective clothing; or consider installing an awning to keep the space shadedall day. * ABCs of SPF: Sunscreens are rated by their sun protection factor or SPF. Those with an SPF of 15 te 380 block most of the daraaging radiation. Fabric can also provide an excellent shield. SunSetter retractable awnings, for example, are made with a fabric that has an SPF of over 50, protecting your family from the sun’s harmful UVrays. FoHowing these basic guidelines can help make the warmer months a blockbuster hit for you and your family! For more infor- mation on SunSetter Awnings, visit www.sunsetter.com or call 1- 800-876-8060, ext. 8646.
