The Rockland County Department of Health offered tips for protecting eyes from the sun as part of its notice that July is UV (ultraviolet) Safety Awareness Month.
"Our eyes are at risk from the sun's UV rays year-round, but especially in the summer when UV rays are strongest and we are outdoors more," said Dr. Patricia Schnabel Ruppert, Rockland County's Commissioner of Health, "While most people are aware of the link between UV rays and skin cancer, many are less aware that too much exposure to UV light raises the risks of eye diseases, including cataract, macular degeneration, growths on the eye and cancer."
According to the release from the Rockland Department of Health, UV rays from indoor tanning beds can also cause eye damage. The department recommends wearing FDA-certified protective eyewear in tanning facilities.
The department of health also offered these tips to protect people's eyes:
Wear sunglasses any time you are outside or driving a car during the day. Sunglasses that offer 100 percent UV protection are recommended. This is most important between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Wear wrap-around styles to keep UV rays from entering from the sides of sunglasses.
Wearing a hat can also help protect eyes.
Wear sunglasses even with contact lenses that provide UV protection.
Clouds do not protect the eyes from UV rays, which can pass through clouds and haze.
Avoid looking directly at the sun.
Remember that children's eyes also need protection from UV rays. Babies younger than six months should be kept out of direct sunlight.
For more information, go to www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/living/sun.cfm.
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