Health Unit wary of next month’s eclipse

We’re still a long way away but the health unit is issuing safety reminders for the April 8th solar eclipse.

Although the Moon will be covering most of the Sun, it’s still dangerous to look directly at the Sun from approximately 2:00pm to 4:30pm when the solar eclipse is happening.

Viewing the sun with your naked eye during the eclipse can burn your retina, damaging the images your brain can view. That can cause temporary or permanent vision impairment.

There’s a number of ways to view the eclipse safely.

To avoid damaging your retinas when viewing the solar eclipse:

Do not view the eclipse at all or use a proper method of blocking the sun’s dangerous rays while viewing
Use a filter that blocks all dangerous light – ISO-certified eclipse glasses from a reputable vendor that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. The manufacturer’s name and address must be printed on the product.
Do not use any viewer if it has scratched or wrinkled lenses

Be careful of anyone trying to offer viewing devices that are not certified

Do not use:
Ordinary sunglasses or multiple pairs of sunglasses
Neutral density or polarizing filters, such as those made for camera lenses
Smoked glass
Photographic or X-ray film (unexposed, exposed or developed)
Binoculars or telescope – even with certified glasses

There are some promoted household items and homemade filters but this is not the time to experiment with internet fads. Some communities are having mass gathering events to view the eclipse. There may be glasses available at these events or you can go online and order glasses ahead of time. There will also be a virtual viewing through the Canadian Space Agency’s website for those who do not want to chance being outside.