On Monday, April 8, Southern Manitoba residents will have the opportunity to observe a partial solar eclipse. 

Dr. Crystal Henderson, optometrist at Focal Point Comprehensive Vision Care in Morden, cautions us to use proper eye protection during this rare event, “It's important to note that it's never safe to look directly at the sun. The day of an eclipse is no exception.” 

Henderson tells us that staring at the sun without eye protection, even if it is partially blocked by the moon, can lead to vision loss, stating, “When part of the sun is blocked by the moon, it can seem not as bright. However, staring at the sun without proper eye protection can result in damage to your retina, called solar retinopathy. Because there are no pain receptors in the retina, this damage can occur without any sensation of pain, and you may not even realize it's happening until it's too late. Visual symptoms may not be noticed for several hours. After the damage has been done, [it] can be permanent and unfortunately there is no treatment available.” 

It is important to educate our children about the damage an eclipse can cause to our eyes. Henderson encourages parents to speak to child in a language they can understand, “Just like the sun can give your skin a sunburn, direct sun exposure can be hard on your eyes as well, so we never want to stare right at the sun because we can get damage to the inside of our eyes, and then we wouldn't be able to see as well.” 

Henderson states that it would be wise to keep a close eye on our children during the eclipse, “It's always important not to look at the sun. It's always dangerous. But on the day of an eclipse, it's an unusual time where we're more conscious of looking at the sun because it's very exciting and there's something new going on.” 

It is important that we have a conversation with our children in advance to explain to them the dangers of looking directly at the eclipse. “You need to watch your kids when they're outside or potentially avoid letting them go outside during the hours of the eclipse unless you are prepared to supervise them and provide them with eclipse shades to protect their eyes’, says Henderson. 

“There are only two safe options to directly view an eclipse”, Henderson warns, “The first one is wearing ISO certified eclipse shades, which provide specifically designed protection for viewing. The second option would be a number 14 welder's glass.” 

Henderson also cautions us to not look at the eclipse through phones and lenses, “You would never want to look at the sun or the partially eclipsed sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope or binoculars or any other device, because you are still getting that exposure.” 

If you don't have the proper protective eyewear, only indirect viewing is safe. An alternative to viewing the eclipse directly could be watching a live stream broadcast, such as the Manitoba Museum live stream. You may also refer to The Manitoba Museum for instructions on how to construct a safe viewing lens at home. 

Dr. Henderson is looking forward to enjoying the eclipse on Monday together with her son. They will be sharing certified eclipse shades to take in the special event.