KENNESAW, Ga., Aug. 07, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hobson Eye Associates is reiterating the advice of the American Optometric Association as the date of an upcoming full solar eclipse draws closer. Solar eclipse safety is crucial to both preserving eye health and enjoying the wonder of the eclipse to the fullest.
The eclipse will occur on August 21 between 1:05 pm and 3:38 pm Eastern Time, with the total eclipse at 2:18 pm. It will surely be an unforgettable experience for anyone fortunate enough to be within its viewing path. However, eye safety is essential.
The upcoming eclipse, named The Great American Total Solar Eclipse, will follow a 70-mile wide band between South Carolina and Oregon. For viewers watching in Kennesaw, the solar eclipse will reach near totality. Because of this, it is especially important that area residents take proper precautions.
One of the most effective ways to view the eclipse safely is by wearing specialty solar eclipse glasses at all times during the event. Additional methods of viewing the solar eclipse safely are with solar binoculars, a camera with an appropriate solar filter, a solar telescope or a pinhole projector. Regular sunglasses are nowhere near dark enough to provide protection from the eclipse, so eyewear worn during the event must be ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses.
Looking directly at the sun when the eclipse isn’t in totality can lead to major eye damage, and, in some severe cases, total blindness. These sun viewing dangers exist whether there is an eclipse occurring or not, but the dangers are magnified during this phenomenon.
During an eclipse, there is a higher risk for people to be tempted to look at the sun without proper eye protection. Chris Hobson, O.D. and the entire staff at Hobson Eye Associates would like to warn residents of Kennesaw and surrounding areas about this hazard so they do not cause permanent damage to their eyes and vision.
When the retina begins to burn, there may not be any sensation at all, so it is especially important to wear eye protection at all times while viewing an eclipse. Eclipse viewers should also watch their sun exposure as they view an eclipse.
Chris Hobson, O.D. says, “We want everyone to stay safe during the upcoming solar eclipse and avoid damage to their eyesight. Wearing specialized solar eclipse glasses is one way to help achieve this.”
About Hobson Eye Associates
Hobson Eye Associates is located in Kennesaw, Georgia and accepts patients six days a week. Those in the public who would like to learn more about the Kennesaw optometrist or book an appointment may do so by calling (770) 424-2020. Additional information about the practice is also available on its website at http://hobsoneye.com/.