5 Tips on How to View Saturday’s Eclipse Safely

On Saturday, Oct. 14, the annular solar eclipse — also known as the ring of fire — will pass over the North America. This phenomenon happens when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, leaving only the sun’s outer edges visible. Because it never completely covers the sun, it creates a “ring of fire” effect.

The annual solar eclipse will begin in Oregon around 9 a.m. PDT and end in Texas around noon CDT. Even if you’re not directly in its path, you should still be able to see some of its effect. Here are five tips to view Saturday’s eclipse safely.

  1. NEVER look directly into the sun without having eye protection. If wearing glasses, make sure they areISO and CE Certified and made in the USA.
  2. If you don’t have special glasses, you can make your own solar eclipse viewer out of a shoebox. Visit scoutlife.org for step-by-step instructions.
  3. DON’T use your smartphone! Watching a solar eclipse through your camera can put you at risk of accidentally looking at the sun when trying to line up your camera.
  4. If you are watching an entire eclipse, it’s also crucial to protect your skin from direct sunlight. Wear sunscreen, a hat and protective clothing to prevent skin damage.
  5. Everyone can also visit go.scoutlife.org/ringoffire to catch the show.

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