Now less than two weeks from the total solar eclipse, Niagara Health wants to make sure everyone is taking the proper precautions when it comes to protecting their peepers.
Dr. Jessica Jackman says you shouldn’t be looking at the eclipse with anything other than ISO-certified glasses.
Dr. Jackman adds that because there’s no pain receptors in your retinas, you may not even realize you’re doing damage.
While many adults know to be wearing eclipse glasses, children may not want to keep them on. Dr. Jackman says if this is the case, you may just be better off not viewing the eclipse with your children.
Niagara Health says to avoid damaging your retinas when viewing the solar eclipse, only use ISO-12312-2 certified eclipse glasses from a reputable vendor and in good condition, and never use regular sunglasses, or do-it-yourself filters.
Public Health has information on how to tell if your solar eclipse glasses are safe, and where to buy them.
As crowds, lines and traffic are expected, everyone is encouraged to fill up their gas tank, get groceries, and have snacks, water and first-aid supplies on hand. For any changes or disruptions to municipal services, call 211 or follow Niagara Region and your local municipality on social media.
(Written by: Matt Latour)