Click here to watch video report about protecting your eyes from UV.
Click here to watch video report about beach safety.

LOS ANGELES, May 28, 2007/ FW/ --- IMemorial Day is the unofficial start of summer here in the U.S. That means being outside most of the time, holiday travel and visits to the beach.

Almost everyone is aware how much damage the sun can do to our skin if we don’t wear a sunscreen, but did you know that the sun’s invisible rays could cause eye damage?

According to The World Health Organization - some 3.2 million people go blind every year due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Did you also know that eye damage from the sun could happen from just being outside? You might just be walking your dog, jogging or even just working in the yard or your garden. Every day, rain or shine, and despite the season - our eyes are exposed to UV radiation.

Most of the time, we don't even realize it, as UV radiation is invisible to the eye. However, research indicates that damage from harmful UVA and UVB radiation is cumulative over a person's lifetime and may contribute to serious age-related diseases of the eye, such as macular degeneration, cataracts and even blindness.

Here’s a little secret. The ability to block UV light is not dependent on how dark a sunglass lens is, or the price tag.

Experts say look for a lens with 100% UVA and UVB protection. And to safeguard in the sun if you wear prescription glasses - look for photochromic lenses like Transitions® lenses.

They block 100% of UVA and UVB rays by automatically adjusting from clear indoors to sunglass dark in proportion to the intensity of UV light - so your eyes and the delicate skin surrounding are protected.

The good news is that your insurance might actually cover this as part of your eye protection plan. Some health insurance plans now even provide coverage for these lenses to help make it easier to care for your eyes.

For more information about caring for your eyes as well as what lens recommendations might best fit your lifestyle, visit www.eyeglassguide.com. Also, it is important to visit your eyecare professional to receive regular eye exams.

Now, what about the beach?

In California with its long coastline, beach safety is a high priority especially during summertime. But, beach safety does not only mean having a lifeguard or being alert for undertows or changes on the ocean’s current.

Beach safety also includes making sure that the water you are swimming in is uncontaminated. According to a study, at least one beach in each of the coastal states has a pollution problem.

Exposure to bacteria, viruses and parasites in contaminated beach water can cause a wide range of diseases, including ear, nose and eye infections; gastroenteritis; hepatitis; encephalitis; skin rashes and respiratory illnesses.

Experts estimate that as many as 7 million Americans get sick every year from drinking or swimming in contaminated water. Most waterborne disease outbreaks in the United States occur during the summer, when Americans are most likely to be exposed to contaminated beach water.

So, before you dive in, there are simple steps you can take to help keep your family safe and healthy this summer. Most importantly, check before you go.

Pick a beach where the water is tested and is closed when the water is too dirty for swimming. Good beaches are tested at least once a week. Know what’s nearby. Stay away from beaches that are located near visible pollution sources, like discharge sewer pipes, marinas, or landfills.

Above all, trust your instincts. If a beach or the water looks dirty, it probably is. If you see trash, animal waste, or dead fish, stay away.

For more tips to having clean fun at the beach this summer go to: nrdc.org/water/oceans/qttw.asp#12