As excitement builds for the upcoming solar Eclipse, we want to ensure your family’s safety during this extraordinary event. Here are five essential safety tips to keep in mind:
- Eye Protection: You need special solar viewing glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standards. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes from the intense solar radiation. Welder’s goggles rated 14 or higher are also safe for viewing a solar eclipse.
- Solar Filters: If you’re using binoculars, a telescope, or a camera to view the Eclipse, you must use a solar filter on the front of the lens. Do not look through these devices without proper solar filters, as they can magnify the sunlight and cause serious eye damage.
- Indirect Viewing: If you don’t have access to solar viewing glasses or solar filters for your equipment, you can still enjoy the Eclipse indirectly. One method is to use a pinhole projector or eclipse glasses to project an image of the Eclipse onto a surface, such as a piece of paper or cardboard.
- Skin Protection: Although the sun may be partially obscured during an eclipse, UV radiation can still be harmful to your skin. If you will be outside for an extended period during the Eclipse, apply sunscreen to any exposed skin to reduce the risk of sunburn.
- Follow Official Recommendations: Pay attention to any official guidance or recommendations from local authorities or astronomical organizations regarding the safe viewing of the Eclipse. They will provide up-to-date information on the best practices for enjoying the event safely.
We will be open during regular business hours and appointments on April 8th, the day of the solar Eclipse. We also have a limited supply of NASA-approved glasses for patients who have appointments during the Eclipse.
PS… Remember to schedule a check-up or sports physical if your child is due this spring or summer! Appointments are going by quickly, and we want to ensure you get an appointment that meets your needs.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child’s care!