Metropolis, Illinois – Residents in Illinois have been advised to be cautious following the recall of several pairs of solar eclipse glasses that were found to potentially not meet safety standards. The Illinois Department of Health issued an alert after reports of the glasses being sold through Amazon and at various retailers in Southern Illinois, including cities like Carbondale, set to witness the total solar eclipse’s “path of totality” in 2024.
The recalled glasses, sold under the brand “Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs),” were identified as potentially unsafe as they were labeled as ‘EN ISO 12312-1:2022’ instead of the proper safety standard of ISO designation 12312-2. Retailers in Southern Illinois, such as Farm Fresh Market and Highland Tru Buy, were among those who sold the now-recalled glasses.
Warnings about the recall were also issued by retailers in Missouri, emphasizing the importance of checking the safety standards of solar eclipse glasses before use. Online marketplace Amazon also reached out to customers who purchased the recalled glasses, advising them not to use them for viewing the upcoming solar eclipse.
Experts from the Adler Planetarium stressed the dangers of viewing the eclipse without proper eyewear, highlighting the risk of irreversible eye damage within seconds. They emphasized the importance of using approved solar eclipse glasses to protect against harmful rays. Checking for the ISO designation 12312-2 printed on the glasses is crucial to ensure their safety.
In light of the recall, individuals are encouraged to verify the authenticity of their solar eclipse glasses and avoid counterfeit or unproven safety claims. Companies approved by the American Astronomical Society are recommended for purchasing safe solar viewers and filters, ensuring proper protection during celestial events.
As the solar eclipse approaches, it is essential to prioritize eye safety and ensure the authenticity of solar eclipse glasses to prevent any potential harm. Additional precautions, such as using pinhole viewers or solar filters for telescopes, binoculars, or cameras, can provide safe alternatives for observing the eclipse. Residents are reminded to stay vigilant and take necessary measures to safeguard their eyes during this rare astronomical event.