MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The summer season is here which means you have to be careful about how much time you are spending in the sun.

Being smart about protecting your skin can spell the difference between you and skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays can reach you on cloudy and hazy days, but especially on bright, sunny days. The UV rays also reflect of surfaces like water, cement, sand and snow.

The most hazardous time of day for UV exposure is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

To protect yourself from the sun's UV rays there are many things you can do. Make sure you wear plenty of sunscreen and apply it generously to all exposed skin.

The nose, ears, arms, and legs are especially vulnerable. It is also important to not spend too much time sun bathing.

There is no such thing as a safe tan. Make sure you bring along some shade to your day on the beach, an umbrella or hat would work just fine. Stay safe, be smart, and have fun in the sun.