Beachreport

What does an energy bill have to do with beachwater? An awful lot, it turns out, because global warming poses an immediate risk to nearly every town and city beach across the country.

All too often city beaches offer something other than fun: an elevated risk of contracting rashes and diarrhea because failing urban pipes dump untreated sewage right into our beaches.

I'm guessing human or animal waste in the waves that can send you running to the bathroom, doctor's office -- or worse -- the emergency room, isn't part of your get-a-way daydream.

Before you dip into the water, you should be aware that swimming at your local beach can make you sick.