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What is ultraviolet radiation?

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the part of sunlight that causes skin damage. It has nothing to do with light or temperature, so it can't be seen or felt.

Whether it's summer, winter or a cloudy day, skin damage can occur if you don’t protect yourself from the sun. The Ultraviolet Index (UVI) provides a consistent and international measure of the sun’s UV strength. It measures UVR on a scale of 1 to 11+. The higher the number, the stronger the radiation and the faster your skin will burn.

You’re at risk when the UVI is 3 or above. In Queensland the UVI is almost always above 3. So remember to protect yourself in five ways — shade, clothing, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen. Check the predicted UV Index today in your area.

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