The summer season means many of us are spending more time in the sun.

Before you head out, though, we ask that you take a few moments to pause and think about the toll all of those ultraviolet rays can do to your skin and your health. It’s especially important this time of year.

The Skin Cancer Foundation reminds us that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. More than 9,500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer each day — and more than two people will die of the disease each hour. Around 20 percent of Americans will develop skin cancer by the time they are 70 years old, the foundation said.

Sadly, it’s estimated that 8,430 people will die of skin cancer this year — 5,470 men and 2,960 women.

During the 10-year period that ended in 2021, the rate in Jefferson County was 18.23. It was 19.47 in Harrison County, and 15.25 in Belmont County. Numbers from the foundation show that your risk of developing skin cancer more than doubles if you have had five or more sunburns in your life, and that a person will receive more than 80 percent of their lifetime sun exposure by the time they are 18.

When you go outside, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 on all exposed skin. Apply the sunscreen at least 15 minutes, preferably 30, before heading out in the sun.

Enjoy the sunshine that we are sure to be experience — and remember to take precautions to reduce the chance that you — or someone in your family — will get skin cancer.