Safety First: Double-Check Your Eclipse Glasses before Viewing the Total Solar Eclipse in Southern Illinois

The Illinois Department of Health has issued a warning for eclipse viewers in Southern Illinois to inspect their glasses following a recall of a brand that did not meet safety standards. The glasses in question were labeled as “Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs)” and were sold at various stores in the region, including Farm Fresh Market in Breese, Highland Tru Buy in Highland, Perry County Marketplace in Pinckneyville, Sinclair Foods in Jerseyville, Steelville Marketplace in Steelville, and Big John Grocery in Metropolis.

As the total solar eclipse attracts thousands of visitors to Southern Illinois on Monday, it is crucial to have proper eye protection. Without certified eclipse glasses with a special-purpose solar filter, viewing the eclipse can result in serious eye damage, as noted by NASA. In Chicago, the eclipse will cause the moon to cover up to 94% of the sun at 2:07 p.m., making it an event that occurs only once every 375 years at a specific location on the planet.

The recalled glasses have been identified with the label “EN ISO 12312-1:2022,” but according to the IDH, they should bear the ISO designation of 12312-2 to ensure safety. It is essential to check the certification and safety standards of eclipse glasses before using them to view the astronomical event. With proper eye protection and knowledge about safe viewing practices, visitors can safely witness this rare celestial event without any risk to their vision or health.