As summer approaches dermatologists remind folks to get skin cancer screenings

Memorial Day is just a few short weeks away and with warmer temperatures around the corner and frequent trips to the beach it's important to remember to be safe while having fun in the sun.

This means doing everything you can to avoid getting skin cancer.

Doctors at PRMC are hoping to remind folks about the dangers of the sun by offering skin screenings, something dermatologists say should be done on a regular basis

We're told sun exposure is the number one risk factor for all skin cancers, but as you know it's hard to stay out of the sun here on the Eastern Shore.

Dr. Elizabeth Burke tells 47 ABC, "We really don't recommend you go out in the midday sun to try and seek a tan even with sunscreen on, you're still going to get sun damage."

Dr. Luette Semmes adds, "Staying out of the sun as much as possible, protecting from the sun as much as possible and protection is more than just sunscreen. So everybody talks about sunscreen, but it's really staying in the shade when you can, wearing clothing that protects you, wearing hats wearing sunglasses."

The doctors tell us that skin checks are also extremely important. They say that you should check your freckles and if they become oddly shaped or colored, go and get them checked by a professional.

They also say to avoid tanning beds at all costs.