Pincher Creek – Portable UV tent rental system

Pincher Creek Wellness Committee came together through a pilot project under Alberta Prevents Cancer. 

Members come from various sectors of the community and work together to foster and grow a healthy community.  After completing a comprehensive assessment considering opportunites and areas of improvement involving different sectors, then analyzing the results, prioritizing and action planning, the group decided to focus on ultraviolet radiation (UVR) reduction and awareness as their first action.

In the summer of 2016, the group undertook a project to purchase 2, 10x20 ft. portable shade tents for community use. The team created a rental system that is housed out of the Community Services Department in the Town of Pincher Creek.  The tents are free for community organizations to rent (a refundable deposit is required) to help reduce UV exposure risk in their community.

The tent was loaned out to 12 different events starting late in June to September of 2016 and continue to be booked throughout the seasons.

The tents were used at sporting and community events. The Football club used the tents for a cancer fundraiser during an annual tournament. The majority of events it was used for were youth related. The feedback from community groups is that they are easy to assemble.

Raising awareness of how too much UV radiation from the sun can cause skin cancer and providing shade structures helps build a healthy community.

Ways to take action: Community Strategies - UV Protection