How to keep your eyes safe during the total solar eclipse

Though we all have differences, there’s one commonality that has prevailed for all of humanity: we are all floating on a rock, flying through outer space at over a million miles an hour.

Thanks to the rapid advancement of technology in the past century, we can observe much more of the universe than we ever thought possible.

The scale and sheer size of the universe make it impossible to learn everything, but it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try.

Excitement for the April 8 total solar eclipse is reaching an all-time as the big day gets closer. While many have already acquired their eclipse glasses, it's important to know how to use them safely to avoid damaging your eyes.

Total Eclipse DFW has shared some valuable tips you can follow to ensure a safe eclipse viewing experience.

“Since most of us have not experienced a Total Solar Eclipse, it’s important to know when to wear Eclipse glasses during a Total Eclipse,” said Jo Trizila, founder of Total Eclipse DFW.

Ensure your glasses fit snugly over your eyes and cover your entire field of vision. Do not peek around the frames when looking at the Sun.

You should wear your eclipse glasses in the time leading up to and following totality. The moon doesn't completely block the Sun's harmful UV rays until it reaches totality. You can remove your glasses only during totality.

Confirm that your glasses meet the ISO 124312-2 international safety standard. You can use this website to check.

Check your glasses for any defects or scratches that could allow harmful sunlight to penetrate the lenses. Do not use damaged glasses.

Limit your eclipse viewing time to brief intervals and take rest breaks.

Go outside and test your glasses before the eclipse! When looking at the sky, you should only be able to see the Sun itself through the glasses. It should appear as an 'intense orange ball.' Everything else should be black.

If any children will be under your supervision during the eclipse, be sure to watch them closely. Teach them how to use the glasses safely and monitor their use to prevent eye injuries.

Medical Director at Legacy ER and Urgent Care in Coppell, Texas, Rob Lapporte, says public awareness of eye protection during the eclipse is crucial.

"It's natural to want to view the Eclipse, but you cannot look directly at the Sun, even briefly, without risking permanent eye damage," Dr. Lapporte warns.

"Regular Sunglasses, even stacked together, do not provide adequate protection. You must use special ISO-certified Solar Eclipse glasses."

If you still need eclipse glasses or want more information on the upcoming eclipse, visit TotalEclipseDFW.com .

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