UV protection also necessary in spring

Enjoy the sun – implement UV protection Source: platinumArt/Stock.adobe.com

UV protection is an important topic in spring – even if sun protection is not on many people's minds at the astronomical start of the season (20 March). Even at this stage of the year, however, UV radiation can be so intense in Germany that protective measures are required, as the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) is keen to point out.

"The spring sun should not be underestimated. This is clear from the latest data from the solar UV measuring network: even in March, Germany can reach UV index values of 3 and, in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, as much as 4. Accordingly, sun protection measures should already be implemented, particularly for children and young people", says Inge Paulini, President of the BfS. Children are more sensitive to UV radiation than adults. UV radiation can damage the eyes and skin and is the leading cause of skin cancer.

Dr Inge Paulini Source: Holger Kohl/ Bildkraftwerk

The UV index is an internationally standardised measure that indicates on a scale of 1 to 11+ how intense the sun's UV radiation is at the earth's surface. Recommendations for sun protection are assigned to certain value ranges. From a value of 3 to 7, the BfS advises adopting protective measures in the following order:

• spend the midday hours in the shade
• wear protective clothing
• don't forget your sunglasses and hat
• use sun cream.

Current UV readings for Germany

The BfS provides information on the current UV situation in Germany at www.bfs.de/uv-aktuell. This page provides access to UV index values for 41 locations at which the nationwide UV measuring network measures UV radiation near the ground from sunrise to sunset. The UV measuring network is operated by the BfS in collaboration with several institutions and is now one of the leading networks of its kind at the international level.

UV index over the course of the day: over 3 even in spring

From April onwards, the BfS issues UV forecasts of the expected maximum values every Monday, Wednesday and Friday in a UV newsletter that provides a three-day forecast for 10 forecast areas. The BfS provides further information on UV radiation and how you can protect yourself from it at: www.bfs.de/uv-schutz.