As families fire up the grill and head outdoors to celebrate Memorial Day weekend, health officials are urging everyone to take precautions against the sun’s powerful rays. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention have declared the Friday before Memorial Day as “Don’t Fry Day,” an annual reminder to shield yourself from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Now in its 16th year, Don’t Fry Day serves as a timely call to action as summer approaches, reminding Americans that excessive sun exposure can significantly increase the risk of skin cancer and cataracts—two conditions that affect millions each year.

The Growing Risk of Skin Cancer

“Remember to protect your skin and eyes from UV rays before you go outdoors,” said Joseph Goffman, EPA Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation, in a press release. “Don’t Fry Day is a great annual reminder of the importance of sun safety.”

The statistics are staggering: nearly 20% of Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, over 100,600 new cases of invasive melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer—will be diagnosed in the U.S., marking an increase of about 3,000 cases from last year.

While anyone can develop skin cancer, certain factors increase the risk, including:

• Fair skin or a tendency to burn easily
• A history of severe sunburns, especially in childhood
• Numerous moles or a family history of skin cancer

How to Stay Safe in the Sun

To encourage sun protection, the EPA is promoting an easy-to-remember set of safety tips:

SLIP! on a long-sleeved shirt or clothing that covers your skin.
SLOP! on sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher, and reapply every two hours (or more often if swimming).
SLAP! on a broad-brimmed hat to protect your face, neck, and ears.
WRAP! on a pair of UV-blocking sunglasses for extra eye protection.

The agency also recommends using its UV Index app to check daily sun exposure levels and plan outdoor activities accordingly.

Beyond Memorial Day: Year-Round Protection

Sun safety isn’t just a summer concern. While warm weather activities increase exposure, UV rays can damage skin year-round, even on cloudy days or during the winter months. Health experts also strongly advise against using tanning beds, which emit concentrated UV radiation that can accelerate skin damage and increase the risk of melanoma.

As you enjoy the holiday weekend, don’t let the sun put a damper on your fun. Stay protected, stay informed, and most importantly—don’t fry!