Photos from Tanning is Out launch event at Kitsilano Beach

Summer has finally arrived and Vancouverites are flocking to the beach to enjoy the beautiful weather. To help beach goers enjoy the sun safely this summer, the Canadian Cancer Society’s Tanning is Out ambassadors headed to Kits beach this weekend to kick off their third annual Tanning is Out launch event and raise awareness about sun safety.

Oh and that lovely sun burned couple are know as The Burnadettes.

INFORMATION ON UV EXPOSURE AND SUN SAFETY

• Melanoma skin cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer for people between the ages of 15-29, and is mostly preventable.
• In order to support people enjoy the sun safely, we’re sharing the following messages:
• If you can, plan your outdoor activities before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when the sun is not at its strongest, or any time of the day when the UV Index is 3 or less.
• Seek shade. If you’re stationary, seek out a space that’s shaded, or create your own by packing a beach umbrella.
• Cover up. Hat’s (a wide brim is best), long sleeve shirts, sunglasses etc.
• Wear sunscreen. Sunscreen can’t block all the suns rays so use it as your back up plan. Look for a “broad spectrum sunscreen” (which means it offers protection from UVA and UVB rays) of at least SPF 15 or SPF 30 if you are planning to be outside most of the day. Apply it generously at least 20 minutes before you head out and follow the instructions per reapplying.

The photographer credit is: Maria Khan, Canadian Cancer Society