Have it made in shade

More than 90 percent of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure and according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is rising faster than any other cancer.

Adults know it’s wise to wear protective clothing, load up on sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. However, it’s harder for children to understand. Have you ever tried lathering sunscreen on an active toddler?

You can make it safe to play outside by creating some shade. Make a UV protective tent or covering over your children’s play areas to protect them from the sun’s harmful rays.

The breathable fabric allows heat to escape while shading outdoor areas and cools them by reducing temperatures up to 15 degrees. Installing shade fabric is easy, even for those who aren’t “do-it-yourselfers.”

All you need to create shaded areas is a product made by Easy Gardener called Sun Screen Fabric. Project plans for creating patio and play area covers are included in each package.

The six foot wide Sun Screen Fabric is available in a variety of colors and lengths. Look for it at local gardening stores, chain retailers or call 1-800-327-9462 (EASY INC). Accessories such as fasteners, snap grommets, locking clips and locking ties are also available.

Sun Screen Fabric also makes a great protective covering for pet areas. Believe it or not, dogs and cats get skin cancer too. Veterinary experts report that 450 of every 100,000 dogs are diagnosed with some form of subcutaneous tissue cancer. For every 100,000 cats, 120 are diagnosed. Just like humans, it is the fairer version of our furry friends that are most affected.

This year, make a concerted effort to protect yourself and the ones you love from the sun’s harmful rays. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and cover outdoor living areas. Your summer will be made in the shade.