INDIANAPOLIS — With the solar eclipse just a few days away, one local organization is making sure Hoosiers can experience the fun safely and for free.
The Marion County Health Department is giving out free eclipse-viewing glasses and eclipse safety information at drive-thru events across Indianapolis.
“As we anticipate this total eclipse, it is critical to understand what it is and how it can potentially impact our health,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director and chief medical officer of the Marion County Public Health Department. “Protecting our vision is paramount, along with the ability of first responders to safely navigate roads that are expected to have a significantly increased amount of traffic that could affect normal travel times.”
Caine is working closely with local hospitals and health care providers to prepare for the solar event.
Here's when and where the free glasses and safety information are being offered:
- Tuesday, April 2
- Lafayette Square Mall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3919 Lafayette Road
- Thursday, April 4
- Washington Square Mall from 2-6 p.m. at 10202 E. Washington St.
- Saturday, April 6
- Marion County Public Health Department from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 3838 N. Rural St.
To watch the eclipse safely, the Marion County Public Health Department is offering these important tips:
- Do:
- Use eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 standards
- Take breaks and give your eyes a rest
- Look at shadows on the ground to see the crescent sun shadows
- Don't:
- Look at the sun directly
- Look at the eclipse through regular sunglasses
- Use welder's glass
- Watch through a telescope without the proper filter
- Watch through binoculars
For more information on the eclipse, click here.