When you think about safe driving, the focus tends to be on driving habits that can cause accidents.
But what about the impact prolonged driving might have on your physical health? Many factors come into play when it comes to your health while on the road – factors such as the protection of your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
According to medical research, the risk of contracting skin cancer is a reality for those who drive for long hours on a regular basis – the long periods of being exposed to the sun’s ultra violet (UV) rays being the main contributor. South African drivers tend to get more pre-cancerous growths on the right side of their bodies because of the right arm of the driver being exposed to more sun. This phenomenon is confirmed by South African skin specialists.
Drivers and passengers (front- and backseat) should take precautionary steps to protect themselves from the sun’s threat – especially in sunny South Africa!
To protect your skin while driving, the following should be done:
– Install transparent window film on your windscreen and windows – this will screen out almost 100 per cent of UV rays without reducing visibility.
– Keep side windows closed, wear long sleeves and apply sunscreen before driving
– Everyone – particularly children – should apply sunscreen daily – whether in a car or not. Sunscreen should be readily available for re-application during long drives. A sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15+ should be used
– A solid, closed roof is the best protection
– A wide-brimmed hat should be worn if you have a convertible top or sun roof – apply sun screen on all exposed skin areas if you do not want to wear a hat
– Avoid propping your elbow on the open window while driving – keep both arms inside the vehicle and both hands on the steering wheel
– Along with a hat and sunscreen, keep UV-blocking sunglasses on hand – ensuring you have the ultimate sun protection kit to get you safely to your destination.
Take care of your skin – you only have the one!
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
