With the growing hype concerning the solar eclipse that will be taking place in 18 days, there is no excuse for Chautauqua County residents to not have a special pair of glasses if they want to witness the historic event.

During a press conference last week, local officials donned the spectacles while also noting just where residents can pick up a pair. A list of locations can be found at this link on our web site: https://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2024/03/list-of-distribution-locations-for-solar-eclipse-glasses/

County Chief Medical Officer Dr. Michael Faulk explained that without proper eye protection, those who look up at the eclipse can get solar retinopathy. “The retina is the vital part of the eye. It exists in the back part of the eye. When damaged by solar energy and the sun’s rays, it can cause visual disturbances,” he said.

Some of the symptoms include blind spots in one or both eyes, dizziness, blurry vision and a mild headache. The symptoms can occur hours or even days after the event of an unprotected viewing of the sun.

Stay safe — and pick up those glasses at a location near you. There is no charge for the glasses, since you already helped Chautauqua County purchase them with taxpayer dollars.