2024 Total Solar Eclipse: Manners for the Momentous Event

Social media and news outlets have been abuzz about the 2024 total solar eclipse. NASA reports: “On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, United States, and Canada . . . The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.” NASA reminds us that safety is paramount—review their safety guidelines so you can take the proper precautions. For those of us in the path of the eclipse (hello, my San Antonio friends!), there is much excitement! Keep reading for our total solar eclipse etiquette reminders.

Don’t Risk Damaging Your Eyes

Eclipse glasses are not the same as sunglasses. Make sure you have purchased a quality pair of eclipse glasses with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. NASA states: “Regular sunglasses, no matter how dark, are not safe for viewing the Sun.” Avoid third-party sites where there is no guarantee of international standards or substandard lens filters.

Research Safe Ways to View

Sky at Night Magazine details viewing devices and modifications, including everything from a budget-friendly colander to a hydrogen alpha refractor. With its many holes, you will have a variety of images of the sun. Just hold it about 20 inches above the ground or on a white piece of paper or a sheet.

Wear Sunscreen

Include a wide-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing to prevent sun damage on your skin.

Give Yourself Time to Get to Your Destination

Drive with your headlights on so other drivers can see you. Do not pull over on the side of a road or highway. Be prepared to be parked in a safe, designated parking spot. It goes without saying, but don’t take videos or pictures while driving.

Have a Full Tank of Gas

Anticipate a 2 to 3-hour time span for traffic and road closures.

Keep Little Ones Safe

Give this Parents.com article a read beforehand, which includes pointers from Bill Nye.

Remember Your Furry Friends

According to NASA, dogs don’t need eclipse glasses because they typically don’t look directly at the sun. Like thunder and lightning, the environmental changes surrounding the eclipse could adversely affect your pet. Dogs tend to get anxious prior to a storm and may have some of the same behavior symptoms. Keep your dog in a calm place, on a leash in a crowd, and make sure they are properly chipped in the event they get lost.

You may also find this eclipse segment from Good Morning America helpful.

For more information about working with Diane, America’s “Go to” social and professional (manners) skills authority, please visit The Protocol School of Texas.  See what Diane is up to by following her on Instagram and Facebook. Find etiquette inspiration on her Pinterest account and keep up with her latest tweets. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, refer to her posts on Inc. and HuffPost.