What does Costa Rica Measure on the Ultraviolet Scale?

According to an article written in La Nacion (Costa Rican National Newspaper) the Level of Utraviolet Rays are between 12 and 15 (on a scale of 1 - 20). The reason for Costa Rica having such high levels of Ultra Violet is Costa Rican position near the equator. A country that lies on the equator might have levels of 20 and countries like North America and England are around 6 or 7. Other countries that have week Ozone layers becaues are pollution are known to have higher levels also. Costa Rica just started measuring this last year so really does not have records to show on this scale if the rays are becoming stronger or weaker. Considering Costa Rica was rated number 3 on the planet for protecting their environment I guess we might be able to assume that the Ozone layer above Costa Rica could only play a positive affect on this scale. The interesting thing about this scale of 1 - 20 is that experts say that when rays are from 1 - 3 you dont have to have any protection. When rays are from 4 - 12 you should where protection during peak hours between 10am and 2pm. When rays are between 13 - 15 you should where protection always. This puts Costa Rica in a level that we should always have protection atleast on the Pacific Coast. The Central Valley is at a 10 which is a little less than the Pacific. Well I hope this information helps in planning for your vacation to Costa Rica and in getting prepared dont forget your SunBlock of minimum 30SPF!!!