Tips for watching the big eclipse
On Monday, residents across the city will be able to see the eclipse for approximately 2 minutes, depending on your viewing location. To maximize your experience, take these tips:
Plan your location in advance
Expect record crowds around the city as tourists file in to witness the eclipse. Cities with optimum viewing locations, such as St. Joseph and Jefferson City, are sure to be packed.
If you want to watch anywhere within the path of totality (location where you can view the entire eclipse), you’ll likely run into crowds there as well. If you choose that option, be sure to arrive at your destination at least 30 minutes, if not an hour, in advance.
If you want to avoid spending money on an extra tank of gas, see of you can view the eclipse from your work or home. All KC residents should be able to see at least a partial eclipse from a nearby location.
If your kids are in school on the 21st, call in ahead of time to see if they are offering eclipse viewing opportunities from their school grounds. If so, just be sure protective eye gear is at hand (more on that shortly).
Consider a park
Though many locations around town are hosting events in conjunction with the viewing, you don’t have to spend money to enjoy the eclipse in all its glory. There are a ton of parks across town perfect for the viewing. Simply check park websites or social media pages for additional information about access and planned activities.
Pick up your protective eye gear
Anyone planning to look into the eclipse directly needs to get appropriate eye gear for safety purposes. According to NASA, solar-filtered eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewers are the way to go. Be sure your supplier is ISO-compliant. Be advised that sunglasses are not considered safe for viewing the eclipse.
I hope you join me in my excitement for the upcoming solar eclipse and all the teaching opportunities it provides for kiddos. With a little advanced planning, you’ll be able to enjoy the show comfortably and affordably.
Kat’s Money Corner is posted on Dollars & Sense every Tuesday. Kat Hnatyshyn, when not blogging or caring for her little ones, is a manager with CommunityAmerica Credit Union. For more financial chatter, visit http://communityamerica.com.
This story was originally published August 16, 2017 at 7:31 PM with the headline "Tips for watching the big eclipse."