OPH Says Limit Your Risks During Solar Eclipse

Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is advising individuals to stay safe during the upcoming solar eclipse and to be aware of the risks associated with looking directly at the Sun. On Monday, April 8, 2024, the Moon’s orbit will position it directly between the Earth and the Sun, causing a solar eclipse. While other areas(link is external) will experience a total eclipse, this will not be the case in Ottawa. The maximum the eclipse will reach will be approximately 99% occurring for 2 to 3 minutes starting at approximately 3:25 pm. 

Looking directly at the Sun at any time without protection may cause damage to your eyes. Because the eclipse is not total in Ottawa, looking at the Sun remains dangerous even during the greatest extent of the eclipse. Damage can occur without any sensation of pain, and the injury can be temporary or permanent. The best way to protect yourself from harm is to not look at the Sun at any point during the solar eclipse without approved eye protection. Regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes. However, if you do wish to view the eclipse, there are ways to reduce your risks.

You can wear approved eye protection, such as ISO Standard 12312-2:2015 solar filters that have the manufacturer’s name and address printed on the product. Ensure to follow approved eye protection instructions for safe use. Remember to always supervise children while using eclipse glasses. 

Never look at the Sun (eclipsed or otherwise) through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device even if you are wearing approved eye protection. The concentrated solar rays will burn through your eye-protection filter and enter your eye(s), causing serious injury. Optical instruments require their own special solar filters. 

Watching the progress of an eclipse may mean you are in direct sunlight for a long period of time. Prevent skin damage by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and protective clothing.

And finally, a reminder to drive carefully and defensively. Once-in-a-lifetime events like the April 8th solar eclipse can attract much higher traffic including people who are in a hurry and/or distracted. Your biggest risk on April 8th might be on the road!

You can also view the solar eclipse safely online via a livestream. 

For more information and to learn more about the solar eclipse please visit OttawaPublicHealth.ca/SolarEclipse