With Monday’s eclipse around the corner, the Health & Safety team wanted to send out an additional “Staying Aware” message…which also ties in perfectly to April Distracted Driving Month.
Here are some important tips to keep in mind whether you are a driver, pedestrian or a curious observer during the eclipse:
Driver
- Watch for distracted pedestrians during the time of the eclipse
- Turn on your headlights during the eclipse
- Prepare for additional traffic congestion before, during and right after the eclipse
- Don’t take pictures or wear your eclipse glasses while driving
- Don’t park along the shoulder of the road or highway; exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic before viewing the eclipse
Pedestrian
- Be cautious of potential distracted drivers during before and during the eclipse
- Do not walk while observing the eclipse
- Find an open area, away from any roadways, and then put your eclipse glasses on to watch the eclipse
Curious Observer
- Do NOT look at the eclipse without approved ISO certified glasses
- Do NOT take pictures of the eclipse without a phone filter (you will damage your phone and your eyes)
- Designated solar filters also needed for telescopes and binoculars
- These filters must be attached to the front of any telescope, binoculars, camera lens, or other optics
- Spread the word about how to observe the eclipse safety to help others stay safe
Background (per https://eclipse.aas.org/eclipse-america-2024):
On Monday, April 8, 2024, a solar eclipse will be visible (weather permitting) across nearly all of North America. All 50 U.S. states (excluding most of Alaska) will experience at least a partial solar eclipse, as will most of Canada, all of Mexico, and all countries in Central America. Anyone within a roughly 115-mile-wide path across Mexico, from Texas through Maine, across parts of Eastern Canada will experience a total solar eclipse, one of the most spectacular sights in all of nature.
Additional Resources:
- Glasses compliant with ISO 12312-2 international safety standards: refer to https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters
- Additional general background:
