This year, National Don’t Fry Day is observed on May 26, the Friday before Memorial Day (the last Monday of May). The innuendo is indeed intended. The National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention has designated it as a reminder for everyone to protect their skin as summer approaches and they prepare to appreciate the great outdoors. It is also intended to raise awareness of sun-safety practises and all the detrimental effects of overexposure. According to the organisation, the slogan for National Don’t Fry Day is ‘Slip, slop, slap, and wrap’ — slip on a shirt, slop on sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, slap on a wide-brimmed hat, and wrap on some stylish sunglasses!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL DON’T FRY DAY
National Don’t Fry Day is observed on the Friday before Memorial Day because the long weekend is typically a time when people appreciate celebrating the outdoors by going to the beach or engaging in other sun-based activities. It was founded in 2008 by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention and partner organisations in an effort to raise awareness about the dangers of UV ray exposure in relation to high skin cancer rates. It aims to educate the public about sun-safe practises while still allowing them to appreciate the summer sun and to reduce the incidence of skin cancer.
Some statistics indicate that an American dies of skin cancer every hour; therefore, we cannot afford to consider it lightly. Melanoma is the most lethal form of skin cancer, while basal cell carcinoma is the most prevalent. The good news is that early detection of skin cancer can aid in its treatment, so adhering to protective measures and keeping a close watch on your skin is sufficient to ward off the risk.
Some individuals may be concerned that taking these precautions will transform them into vampires, but they need not worry. Checking the UV index before heading outside and avoiding the sun at midday (when it is at its peak) are simple precautions that do not hinder most outdoor activities. It is also important to enable your body to produce vitamin D naturally by exposing yourself to sunlight for 10–15 minutes per day. Organic sunscreens are the finest option, but you should not rely solely on them for protection. It must be reapplied thickly every two hours, and don’t neglect to purchase SPF chapstick to protect your lips.
Buddha Day 2023: Date, History Facts about Buddhism
National Paper Airplane Day 2023: Activities, Significance and Dates
Independence Day (Guyana) 2023: Date, History, Importance, Facts
5 SIMPLE STEPS FOR SUN SENSE AND PROTECTION
Avoid tanning
Numerous tanning beds and sunbeds emit damaging UV radiation, and the damage they cause outweighs their aesthetic value.
Use plenty of protection
Even on cloudy days, it is important to apply sunscreen, which is why the term “slather” is commonly associated with this practise.
Seek shade
Avoid casting shade, but actively pursue it between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Get Vitamin D securely
Vitamin D can also be obtained through dietary supplements and vitamin-rich foods.
Guard your physique
Protective clothing and accessories can also be stylish, and in this instance, less is NOT more.
NATIONAL DON’T FRY DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | May 27 | Friday |
| 2023 | May 26 | Friday |
| 2024 | May 24 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 23 | Friday |
| 2026 | May 22 | Friday |
