As the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter during the summer months, it is important to protect yourself from sunburn. Sunburn not only hurts and damages your skin, but it can also increase your risk of skin cancer.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe in the sun.

1. Wear Sunscreen

The most important thing you can do to protect yourself from sunburn is to wear sunscreen. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before going outside.

Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating.

2. Seek Shade

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to stay in the shade during those hours. Find a sheltered spot under an umbrella, tree, or awning.

If you must be in the sun, wear a hat and lightweight clothing that covers your arms and legs.

3. Wear Sunglasses

Your eyes can also be damaged by the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Wear sunglasses that block at least 99 percent of both UVA and UVB rays. Look for glasses with wraparound frames to protect your eyes from all angles.

4. Check the UV Index

The UV Index is a measure of the strength of the sun’s UV rays. The higher the number, the stronger the sun and the more likely you are to get sunburned. Check the UV Index before you go outside and plan your activities accordingly.

You can find the UV Index on the weather forecast or through the EPA’s website.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is important for your overall health, but it can also help prevent sunburn. When your body is hydrated, your skin is more resilient and less likely to be damaged by the sun.

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and more if you’re spending time in the sun.

6. Be Extra Careful Near Water and Sand

Water and sand reflect the sun’s rays and can increase your risk for sunburn. If you’re near the water, wear a water-resistant sunscreen and reapply regularly.

If you’re on the sand, sit under an umbrella or wear a hat to cut down on the amount of sun you’re exposed to.

7. Don’t Forget Your Scalp and Lips

Many people forget to protect their scalp and lips from the sun, but both are vulnerable to sunburn. Wear a hat to shield your scalp from the sun, or apply sunscreen to your part.

Use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 15 to protect your lips from the sun’s rays.

8. Take Extra Care with Children

Children are more vulnerable to sunburn than adults because their skin is thinner and more delicate. Infants under six months should be kept out of the sun altogether.

Children over six months should wear sunscreen and protective clothing, and should be kept in the shade as much as possible.

9. Know the Signs of Sunburn

If you do get sunburned, it’s important to know the signs so you can treat it properly. Symptoms of sunburn include redness, pain, swelling, blisters, and fever.

If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the sun and apply a cool compress to the affected area. Stay hydrated, and take pain relievers if necessary.

10. See a Doctor for Severe Sunburn

If you have severe sunburn, you may need medical attention. Seek medical help if you have widespread blistering, a high fever, nausea, or chills. These can be signs of a severe sunburn that requires medical treatment.