Catching some rays this summer could be more dangerous than ever this year, warn health and environment experts.

They advise people that it's especially important to avoid too much sun or to cover up when it's bright outside.

Levels of harmful ultraviolet radiation are expected to rise four per cent this year as more radiation reaches land because the Earth's protective ozone layer is thinning, according to Environment Canada.

Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen all year long. (CP file photo)
Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen all year long. (CP file photo)

Since cases of skin cancer, sunburns, cataracts and other ailments are predicted to increase, doctors say people should use plenty of sunscreen, be sure to wear hats and don sunglasses.

The rate of skin cancer has been rising three to five per cent annually in recent years, notes Dr. Beatrice Wang, a dermatologist at the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal.

"We emphasize sunscreens, but we also emphasize sun avoidance behaviour as a big role in protecting yourself from skin cancer," said Wang.

Sunscreen blocks UV rays and should be used all year long, health officials say.

That advice may come as a surprise to many people, such as a Montreal woman who was enjoying some sunshine Thursday. When told of the advice to use sunscreen all year, she asked, "Even now? I didn't come prepared. I'm at work and I just came out for a little bit, but definitely now that summer's approaching, I find it very important to use sunscreen."

One man breakdancing in the city said it's asking too much of people to expect them to avoid the sun. "If we thought of all the risks there are in life, we'd never do anything," said Tony Fagot.

Wang acknowledged it's unrealistic to ask people to always avoid catching some rays. And, health officials note sunshine is a source of vitamin D, which is needed for healthy bones.

"If you could avoid the burns and avoid the deep tans that would make us a lot happier and maybe make me a little less busy," Wang said.

The doctor recommends people avoid the sun between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. when its rays are the strongest, and should stay in the shade as much as possible.