DECATUR, Ga. – DeKalb County will be in the path of the upcoming solar eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21. This is a unique event, however, it does require citizens to exercise safety to avoid injuries.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, DeKalb County will see a partial (97.6 percent obscuration) solar eclipse, with the peak occurring at 2:36 p.m.
Below are some tips from DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency to stay safe during the eclipse:
· Do not look at the sun without proper protection. Sunglasses are not sufficient. Specialty solar glasses that meet the international standard ISO 12312-2 for direct observation of the sun should be used. Several DeKalb County libraries are offering them for free, but they may also be purchased at many retail stores or online.
· Read the instructions with the solar glasses.
· Solar glasses should be inspected before each use. Do not use if they are damaged in any way.
· Solar glasses should be used each time the sun is viewed during the eclipse since DeKalb County will not experience a total eclipse.
· Do not stop on roadways to view the eclipse. Drive to a safe location and park your vehicle.
· Use headlights; exercise the same vigilance and safety as driving at nighttime during the eclipse.
· Be mindful of animals. It has been reported during solar eclipses that animals change behavior and may be startled or confused.
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