NBC10’s Drew Smith discusses the dangers of looking at an eclipse without the approved glasses or a pinhole viewer.
Attorney General Josh Shapiro is warning all those in Pennsylvania who plan on watching Monday's solar eclipse to make sure their glasses are the real-deal.
According to the American Astronomical Society the fake glasses are out there and it turns out that schemers are making quite a profit off of the product. Even Amazon had to recall some of the glasses sold on their site.
“We’re warning Pennsylvania consumers: Don’t get blinded by fake solar eclipse glasses,” Shapiro said. “Do some checking to make sure the glasses you buy will thoroughly protect your eyes and allow you to safely view the Solar Eclipse.”
- How do you know if your glasses will really protect your eyes? (Helpful hint: regular sunglasses will NOT).
- First make sure the glasses you have or are going to purchase are registered as a “Solar Viewer Brand” with the American Astronomical Society.
- Be sure your glasses are marked with the international safety standard (a certification number ISO 12312-2). The number can be found on the frame.
- If you decide to view the eclipse through a phone or camera, make sure it has a solar filter.
- Know how to properly use your glasses or filters.
NASA highly recommends using glasses or a filter because of the powerful energy of the sun. Although those in Pennsylvania will only be bale to see 75 to 80 percent of the sun’s covering, the affect on the eyes in the same.
“If you believe someone sold you a fake pair of solar eclipse glasses, call our Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-441-2555 or email us at scam@attorneygeneral.gov,” Shapiro said. “Don’t get blinded by this scam. Let us fight to protect your vision and you.”
