When I was a kid (just last week) I made a sign in metal shop in junior high school. It was a cast iron mold that we made and then we could post it somewhere. I remember doing mine to say the word "DANGER." I thought this was a cool thing to write, as I was going to post it on my bedroom door and this would keep the unwanted (my little sister) out. It did not really work. Candy would disappear and things would miraculously get organized (by way of my mom). Basically, I was like the boy crying wolf with a sign that held no importance.

Sometimes, I feel like when I talk about the UV index, it is seen as an insignificant danger sign. If I could be more direct, the sun (ultraviolet radiation) is the most dangerous weather related event in the valley. In the U.S. almost 1 person dies per hour as a result of skin cancer. The statistics are really scary.

http://www.skincancer.org/skincancer-facts.php

My job as a meteorologist is to keep you safe from weather related events. The UV index is posted by the CPC and by the EPA. Here are the links:

http://www.cpc.noaa.gov/products/stratosphere/uv_index/uv_current_map.shtml

http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/uvindexcontour.html

Finally, like many of you I have children and I take my responsibility seriously. I know it is important to keep you and your family and loved ones safe for the long term future. Please keep in mind the danger and damage that the sun can do here in Arizona, and use sunblock, hats, and shades to keep safe during this very sunny time of year.

Thanks... and remember "safety Steve" at your service here ;)