Ten schools and organizations won EPA recognition this week for protecting children from the damaging effects of overexposure to the sun, including the Swan School in Allentown. The winners teach and promote sun-safe behaviors to prevent skin cancer, cataracts, and other adverse health effects.

In the United States, one person dies every hour from melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer. This disease is largely preventable with proper sun protection. EPA’s SunWise Program encourages K-8 schools, science and children’s museums, and other organizations to educate children and their caregivers about sun protection.

The Swain School in Allentown won the 2004 “Shining Star Award.” This award recognizes educators and other proponents of children’s health issues who are implementing SunWise in an exemplary way; by reaching a large number of students, reporting UV Index data to EPA’s Web site, sponsoring poster contests, or developing sun-safety curriculum. For more information visit: SunWise program.

6/11/2004