On April 8, a rare phenomenon will occur in Quebec: a solar eclipse! Throughout the region, a partial solar eclipse will be visible between 2:16 p.m. and 4:37 p.m., and in the Drummondville and Victoriaville sectors, a total eclipse will occur (i.e. the moon will completely obscure the sun) for about one minute, between 3 and 3 minutes. :28pm and 3:29pm
Is it dangerous to watch the eclipse?
Observing a partial or total eclipse without adequate protection can cause eye damage that may have irreversible effects on vision. Symptoms a
These lesions usually appear within hours or days of viewing:
- Blurred vision
- Decrease in visual acuity.
- Spots in the field of vision.
- Poor color vision.
- Optical distortion
- Micropsia (things that appear smaller);
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light);
- Headache in the front or side of the head.
How can a solar eclipse be observed safely?
Direct observation of the eclipse must be performed while wearing ISO 12312-2 approved glasses. Regular sunglasses do not protect the eyes during a solar eclipse. Consult Éclipsequébec.ca Find out where approved eyeglasses are sold.
Before using approved glasses, make sure they come from Reliable supplier And they are in it Good Condition. Can be worn over your glasses.
If you are traveling outdoors or driving a vehicle during the eclipse, it is recommended to wear a long-brimmed hat and not look at the sun. Approved glasses should not be used while traveling.
It is also possible to view a solar eclipse indirectly Make a solar eclipse box.
To learn more, see Quebec | Preparing for the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 in Quebec.
How can we ensure that vulnerable people are protected during the eclipse?
Some people are more at risk of viewing the eclipse, such as people with intellectual disabilities or cognitive disorders. It is up to each person (accompaniment or guardian) to evaluate the risks of viewing the eclipse directly or indirectly. Here are some questions that will help you make this decision:
Would the benefits of viewing the eclipse outdoors, in terms of scientific and educational experience, be significant for this person?
Will we be able to guarantee a safe viewing of the eclipse for this person based on the following elements?
- Access to a pair of approved glasses or an eclipse box;
- The availability of a capable adult to supervise the person at all times during the viewing;
- The person's ability to follow instructions, depending on his or her condition;
- A person's psychomotor skills to properly handle glasses;
- Consider the safety of the physical environment (windows, places without direct light, etc.).
If these conditions are not met, it is recommended to stay indoors, cover windows as much as possible (close curtains) and prevent vulnerable people from looking at the sun (avoid window edges).
For more details, see CIUSSS DE LISTRE | Enjoy the solar eclipse safely!
As an employee, what procedures should you follow during the eclipse?
If you are working during a solar eclipse, it is recommended that:
- Strengthen internal work;
- Do not view the eclipse without eye protection.
For more details, see Synesist | Solar eclipse.
