NYC Comptroller Stringer Wants Free Sunscreen Dispensers In Public Spaces
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Comptroller Scott Stringer is calling on the city to provide free sunscreen dispensers at public parks, beaches, playgrounds and pools.
More than 10,000 people in the U.S. die from skin cancer every year, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Stringer said 90 percent of melanoma cases are caused by exposure to UV rays, and regular use of sunscreen can cut the risk of developing the cancer by 50 percent.
LINK: Sunscreen In The City Report
"Skin cancer is a serious public health concern, and it demands government attention," Stringer said. "When New Yorkers head to our city's parks, beaches, pools, and playgrounds this summer, they shouldn't return home with a sunburn and increased risk of skin cancer. Providing free sunscreen to city residents can protect our children and save lives."
Parents and children who spoke with CBS2's Elise Finch admitted they don't always remember to bring sunscreen when they head out to the park or pool. They say having a free dispenser nearby would encourage them to apply sunscreen regularly.
"I'm sure that would go a long way to solving the problem," West Village resident and father Gerald Protheroe said.
"We forget our stuff sometimes at least when we get to the pool we would for sure have the sunscreen there available for all the children. So I think it's a great idea," Midtown resident and mother Aida Rivera said.
Pointing to Boston and Miami Beach, which have similar programs in place, Stringer said sunscreen dispensers can be installed at "virtually no cost" to the city through public-private partnerships.
Boston's sunscreen dispensers are funded through grants from public health groups and advocacy groups. Miami Beach has a licensing agreement that allows a company that operates the dispensers to produce Miami Beach brand sunscreen.
"Summers in our city may be hazy, but the science here is clear: sunscreen helps, and a free sunscreen program in New York City will allow families to safely enjoy New York's great public spaces together," Stringer said. "This is a common sense idea that will protect all New Yorkers – especially our children – from the sun's harmful rays."