The Sun Is Dangerous

[FatherandSon]

Another Safety Tip. Use Sunblock, wear a large brim hat. I have spent a lot of time in the sun over my 55 years. Got burned many times in Vietnam, on the jersey beach. About 5 years ago had a brown spot develop on the side of my face near my ear. Doctor said it was nothing. This year, after my family's insistence, I made the doctor due a biopsy. Sure enough, Malignant Melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. Was operated on 2 weeks ago, took out a large part of the side of my face. Good news is that he was a plastic surgeon and am no uglier than I was before. And he got it all. Doctor said one more year and it would of been too late.

I urge you all to use sun block and wear that hat. Skin cancer is easy to get and could kill you.

Be safe and happy mowing.

[MuskTurfKing]

That's definately no fun, my neck is peeling as we speak, I got roasted pretty good. I'm putting that sunblock on today when I go to finish up some work!

Hank

[rodfather]

Thanks for the reminder Don...hope your recovery is a speed one.

[A.U.steve]

This is a major problem over here as we have the highest rates of skin cancer in the world our U.V. index readings range between 14 and 16 (extreme) during the summer months.

[turfsup]

Being in the sunshine state I know what you mean. The tanning index has hit 9 and 10 a couple of times this year already and with my fair skin all it takes is an hour and I'm cooked! The large brimmed hat is a must. It gets in the way sometimes but its worth it in the long run. Also stay hydrated. I've got a Camelbak and I do believe its the best investment Ive made to date.

[rodfather]

What's a Camelbak? Never heard of it.

[KDJ]

Originally posted by rodfather
What's a Camelbak? Never heard of it.

It is a water back pack. You can buy one at a bike shop.

[Brickman]

I can't use a Camelbak due to riding a mower most of the day. But each to his own. I had a hired guy use one for a while and then quit. But if it works for you, have at it.

I always wear a wide brimmed hat. Being at 6000 ft + elevation the sun beats down pretty hard. I get a light colored cloth one with a dark green underside, to cut down on glare.

We don't get paid enough to pay for the medical bills that cancer can cause. :mad:

[1MajorTom]

Quote: What's a Camelbak? Never heard of it.


http://www.camelbak.com/default2.cfm

[A.U.steve]

Turfsup

You will go about 8 minutes here if your fair skinned, media reports post warnings.

[TGCummings]

Thanks for the sincere warning, Father, I hope everything works out for you. I'm glad to hear it has so far.

This is something I've been thinking about a lot lately. I'm only 33 but I've worked outdoors since I was 15 years of age. Most of the time, without a lick of sunblock on me. When you're in your 20s, and younger, you have that feeling of immortality but it begins to wear away as you get a little older. I know I've been lucky and I take no chances anymore.

15, 25, 35, it doesn't matter. Make sunblock a part of your morning routine. Reapply as often as necessary. Stay protected.