Employees and students should take precautions during today's solar eclipse

Employees and students should take precautions during today's solar eclipse

Posted on August 21, 2017

Today people around the world will experience a rare solar eclipse. The moon will cover at least part of the sun for two to three hours. The eclipse will be visible in Frankfort beginning at approximately 1 p.m. and ending at approximately at 3:53 p.m. The maximum eclipse in Frankfort will occur at approximately 2:29 p.m.

While this is an exciting and rare event, precautions must be taken.

According to a statement from the American Optometric Association (AOA) and the American Astronomical Society (AAS), there is only one way to safely view the solar eclipse.

“Use approved solar eclipse viewers. The only safe way to view a partially eclipsed sun is through special-purpose solar filters, such as “eclipse glasses” or viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2 for safe viewing. Sunglasses, smoked glass, unfiltered telescopes or magnifiers, and polarizing filters are unsafe.”

The AOA and AAS recommend visiting your local doctor of optometry for a comprehensive eye exam if you experience discomfort or vision problems following the eclipse.

Be responsible and cautious if you decide to view the eclipse today.