Lake-Fun

The hot weather is finally on its way so don't forget to protect you skin.

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Canada.

"Remember to stay away from the sun between 11a.m. to 4 p.m. when the rays are the strongest, and if you can't make sure you cover up and are wearing long sleeve shirts, pants and have a wide brim hat on and sunscreen," advises Darrell Howard, community engagement coordinator with the Canadian Cancer Society.

The Canadian Cancer Society recommends to wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day and if you are spending all day outside they recommend an SPF of 30.

"SPF is an indication of the sun proof factor and how much protection it will provide you," explains Howard.

She says anyone who has fair skin, moles, freckles or who had a blistering sun burn as a child is at a higher risk of developing skin cancer.

"There are treatments for non-melanoma skin cancer," she says. "However melanoma skin cancer is quite serious, so that's one of the reasons you need to reduce your exposure to UV radiation."

Howard advises everyone to know their skin really well.

"If you see changes to birth marks or moles, if you see any new growths or if there is a sore that doesn't heal, you need to get to your doctor as soon as possible."

Howard warns that people who use indoor tanning beds are increasing their chance of developing melanoma by 75%, especially if they are under 35-years-old.

"That's one of reason we're recommending that legislation ban anyone under 18 from using tanning beds," she explains.

This summer remember to apply sunscreen on a regular basis.