mom angry after kids badly sunburned during field trip (school ban on sunscreen)

[frazzled]

71. It's why skin cancer is the number one most common cancer today.

Honestly folks, there's a reason sunscreen was developed; and especially for fairer skinned people (who don't tan but burn), it's critical. We're talking potentially lethal exposure here. There's really nothing to discuss about it. Sunscreen should not be banned from schools.

The Skin Cancer Foundation's Position on Sun Protection in Schools

The Foundation believes that every child should have access to proper sun protection at school. Suffering just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles one’s risk of developing potentially deadly melanoma later in life; therefore protecting children from sun exposure should be a priority for school administrators and teachers. The Skin Cancer Foundation has always recommended that everyone, regardless of age and skin color, adopt a complete sun protection regimen. At school, children should be able to cover-up with protective clothing, including broad-brimmed hats and UV-blocking sunglasses. Additionally, they should wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, and be allowed to bring it to school for easy reapplication. Finally, shade structures allow children to play outdoors safely during the sun’s peak hours, between 10am and 4pm.

http://www.skincancer.org/media-and-press/press-release-2012/schools