Northport's Crab Meadow Beach gets free sunscreen dispensers

Just in time for the last gasp of summer 2016, free sunscreen dispensers have been installed at Crab Meadow Beach in Northport.

The pilot program offers free sunscreen in an effort to promote sun safety.

“I believe that by providing this service to our residents we are helping them guard themselves from the sun, educate themselves on better sun protection and ultimately help the fight against skin cancer,” said Huntington Town Board member Susan A. Berland, sponsor of the program. “The importance of sunscreen is crucial and I’m hopeful that residents will take advantage of the free sunscreen now offered by the Town.”

The sunscreen dispenser was purchased from the nonprofit organization, the Melanoma Foundation of New England. The sunscreen is organic and SPF 30. The dispensers are weather-resistant and similar to antiseptic dispensers, Berland said.

If the pilot program is well-received, town officials will look toward placing sunscreen dispensers at each of its beaches, Berland said.