Stay Cool & Protected Onboard With Essential Sun Safety Tips for Boating
Sun safety is a crucial concern for anyone spending time on the water. Whether you're a seasoned boater, an outdoor enthusiast, or a family heading out on a pontoon vacation to one of the Midwest’s best lakes, understanding and implementing sun safety measures can ensure your time on the boat is both enjoyable and safe.
In this blog post, we’ll explore various aspects of sun safety, emphasizing the importance of protecting your skin, staying hydrated, and using the right gear.
Read on to discover how autobimini products can play a pivotal role in keeping you and your loved ones safe from harmful UV rays while boating!
UV Radiation & Our Skin
Before discussing specific sun safety tips, it's important to understand UV radiation and why it’s harmful. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comes from the sun and can cause a range of health issues, from sunburn to skin cancer.
There are three types of UV radiation: UVA, UVB, and UVC. While UVC is absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, UVA and UVB reach the surface and can penetrate the skin.
The intensity of UV radiation varies throughout the day and is highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — prime boating time. UV levels are also higher at higher altitudes and on reflective surfaces like water, making boaters more susceptible to the harmful effects.
In fact, it takes only 20 minutes of sun exposure to sunburn, and without shade or proper protection, you’re basically a sitting duck!
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The Necessity for Automatic Shade Onboard
One of the most effective ways to protect yourself from UV radiation while pontooning is to ensure adequate shade onboard. Our autobimini products offer an innovative solution.
Our cutting-edge automatic bimini top features a 10-foot-extending canvas canopy made from marine-grade material with UPF 50+ sun protection, the highest UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating given to materials. This means you can enjoy ample shade and significantly reduce your UV exposure.
The autobimini's powerful motor and 4-bow design make it incredibly easy to use. The canopy can be lifted instantly, providing immediate protection and cooling shade without any hassle.
Whether you’re anchored or cruising, fishing or entertaining, the autobimini ensures you have a reliable source of shade whenever you need it.
Additional Sun Protection Measures You Should Take
In addition to having instant shade from your autobimini, take these other precautions, too. Remember, water and fiberglass from boats reflect sunlight up and onto you from below, even on cloudy days, making extra protection necessary.
Choose Sun Protection Gear
Wearing the right sun protection gear is essential. Start with clothing designed to block UV rays. Look for fabrics labeled with UPF, which indicates how effectively the fabric blocks UV radiation. Long-sleeved shirts and pants made from lightweight, breathable fabrics can provide excellent protection without making you too hot.
Another must-have item is a wide-brimmed hat. Hats with brims all around offer better protection for your face, neck, and ears than baseball caps.
When it comes to sunglasses, choose a pair that provides 100% UV protection. Polarized lenses can also reduce glare, making it easier to see on the water.
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a vital part of any sun safety regimen. It helps protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. When selecting sunscreen, choose a broad-spectrum product with an SPF of at least 30. Water-resistant formulas are ideal for boating activities, as they remain effective even when you perspire or get splashed.
Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin at least 15 minutes before heading out. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Don’t forget areas like the tops of your feet, ears, and the back of your neck – these are often overlooked but can easily burn.
Stay Hydrated
Spending time in the sun can quickly lead to dehydration, which can sneak up on you. Signs of dehydration include thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, and decreased urine output. To stay hydrated, aim to drink at least eight ounces of water every hour while on the water. Bring along a cooler filled with water bottles and consider adding electrolyte drinks to help replenish lost minerals.
Incorporate hydrating foods into your snacks and meals, too. Fruits like watermelon, oranges, and strawberries have high water content and are perfect for a day on the boat. Salty snacks like pretzels can help maintain electrolyte balance, but be sure to balance them with plenty of water.
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Stay Safe & Shaded With autobimini!
Sun safety is essential for enjoying your time on the water without risking your health, and with autobimini, it’s easy, too! Our team has been committed to your well-being from its inception by creating products that not only provide immediate and effective sun protection but are also easier to use and more reliable than the competition’s.
Check out both our autobimini and autobimini lite electric bimini tops, and feel free to reach out to our team to learn more about how autobimini can enhance your boating adventures and how you can install one yourself.
Stay safe, stay shaded, and enjoy the ride even more!