Shore town distributes UV wristbands with beach tags
(Image: Wikipedia.org)
In an effort to raise skin cancer awareness, an Atlantic County community is distributing an ultraviolet wristband with each beach tag purchase.
Longport is providing the sun protection awareness bracelets to the first 5,000 beach tag purchasers. Sales began on Monday.
The white bracelets contain a special powder that reacts to ultraviolet rays from the sun and turn purple if UV rays are detected.
Similar to the ubiquitous “Livestrong” bands, the bracelets read, “When Purple – Protect – Prevent Melanoma,” Longport Mayor Nick Russo said in a release.
“These UV bracelets will help serve as a visual reminder to our beach patrons to protect themselves from the sun’s ultraviolet rays. If you see purple, please take steps to protect yourself. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be present,” he said.
AtlantiCare, a member of Geisinger Health System, is sponsoring Longport’s initiative.
The American Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using sunscreen, sun avoidance or use of shade, and protective clothing to help protect against UV rays.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, according to the foundation.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
