OHIO — Solar eclipse glasses scams are on the rise, but experts say there are few things buyers can do to avoid becoming victims.

What You Need To Know

  •  Amazon recently had to issue refunds for counterfeit solar eclipse glasses 

  •  Experts saidlegitimate glasses have specific labeling and can block out the sun 

  • While you can buy them online, some organizations are giving away the glasses for free 

One of the first things to do is check to see if the labeling on the glasses is correct. The label should say ISO 12312. Another way to know if they are real is to test them out with light from the sun or a incandescent bulb.

If you’re barely able to see out of them, the chances are they are legitimate. Getting the right glasses is important because optometrists say the wrong ones won't be able to protect your eyes from the sun. 

“It’s so bright that, I mean, if you looked for 10, 15, 20 seconds, it could potentially cause either temporary damage or potentially permanent damage to the back of the eye,” said Dr. Aaron Zimmerman, a clinical professor at Ohio State University's college optometry.

If you are still not sure where to buy them, the American Astronomical Society has a list of reputable brands on its website. And some organizations like the Columbus Metropolitan Library are giving them out for free. You can get a free pair as early as March 18.

 

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