Local Eye Doctor Offers Advice For Viewing The Eclipse
WARSAW — Local optometrist Dr. Scott Caughell offers some safe-viewing advice for the upcoming eclipse occurring on Monday, Aug. 21.
“The upcoming solar eclipse offers a chance to view a rare sight. Here at Warsaw Family Eyecare we have received a lot of questions related to how to safely observe this rare occurrence,” said Caughell. “Please be extremely careful when attempting to view the eclipse as I have seen patients with solar retinopathy (damage to the back of the eye from the sun) and it can be very debilitating and is permanent.”
Dr. Caughell states that because Kosciusko County will not see a total eclipse, there will be no way to view the eclipse safely without proper protection. He specifies that proper protection includes glasses with ISO 12312-2 safety standard, or a 12 or higher welder’s filter.
“We have heard many reports of fake eclipse glasses being sold and some large recalls have happened very recently. Permanent damage can occur in less than 30 seconds even if only looking at a sliver of the sun,” explains Caughell.
The natural instinct to look away from the sun’s rays is undermined during an eclipse. Attempting to view the eclipse through a camera lens, telescope or binoculars without very special filters is also dangerous.
Dr. Caughell adds, “If your children are outside make sure you keep a very close eye on them and keep them protected – no pun intended. Safe viewing!”