Being Sun Smart in Armadale

The City of Armadale is partnering with Cancer Council WA to promote SunSmart messaging in the community to raise awareness of the importance of protecting you, and your family from skin cancer*.

As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to improving community health and wellbeing, a SunSmart space has been installed, complete with a sunscreen kiosk and additional umbrellas, at the Armadale Fitness and Aquatic Centre.

City Mayor Ruth Butterfield said the project was a valuable initiative for the whole community and a timely reminder for residents to stay SunSmart, particularly in the lead up to summer, which will see UV levels reaching extreme levels in the middle of the day.

“The SunSmart project is yet another valuable City partnership with Cancer Council WA, which focuses on preventing skin cancer and skin damage caused by the sun.” Mayor Butterfield said.

The sunscreen kiosk will provide free Cancer Council Ultra Sunscreen SPF 50+ sunscreen year round, encouraging staff, visitors, and patrons to be SunSmart. It is recommended people apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming, when sweating, and/or towel drying.

The kiosk also provides real-time advice on the UV index, giving staff, visitors, and patrons information on when they do and don’t need sun protection, making it easier than ever to be smart about your sun exposure all year.

To prevent skin cancer, it’s timely to remind our whole community to be SunSmart by:

• SLIP on sun protective clothing
• SLOP on SPF 30 or higher sunscreen
• SLAP on a broad brimmed or sun protective hat
• SEEK shade
• SLIDE on sunglasses

It is important to check your skin regularly for any new spots or changes in shape, colour or size of existing spots. Get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any changes to a spot, non-healing sore, freckles, mole or are concerned about your skin cancer risk.

Visit AFAC and check out our mascot Arry’s new look at the SunSmart space! More information is available on the City’s website: https://www.armadale.wa.gov.au/sun-safety 

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*Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in Australia. Most skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation resulting in cell damage including sunburn, tanning, premature ageing and eye damage. Sun protection is recommended whenever UV levels reach 3 or higher. Protecting your skin from UV radiation is important all year, not just during summer.