S. Ontario school boards reschedule P.A. days to coincide with solar eclipse

So far, eight Ontario school boards have decided to reschedule professional activity (P.A.) days to coincide with the April 8 solar eclipse.

The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) is the latest to join in, voting Tuesday to move the P.A. day that had been set for April 19.

Other schools that will close to students on the day of the eclipse include Halton District School Board (HDSB), Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB), Peel District School Board (PDSB), Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board (DPCDSB), Durham District School Board (DDSB), Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board (PVNC Catholic).

Total eclipse

On Monday, April 8 afternoon, the Sun, Moon, and Earth will perfectly align, producing a total solar eclipse.

During the eclipse, the Moon's shadow will darken Earth, moving from southwest to northeast across North America.

While eclipses aren't uncommon in Canada, this will be the first time since February 26, 1979 that millions of Canadians have a chance to see a total solar eclipse close to home, writes Weather Network science writer Scott Sutherland.

Solar eclipse path of totality. (The Weather Network)

Transportation and safety concerns

According to a report by the Toronto Star, the boards rescheduled their P.A. days to coincide with the eclipse due to transportation and safety concerns related to the darkness that will arise.

Eclipse safety

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind on the day of the eclipse.

Use solar viewing glasses.

When looking at an eclipse, always use specially-designed solar viewing glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Regular sunglasses will not protect you.

Check the condition of your glasses before the eclipse.

Even if your safety glasses are certified, inspect them for damage or scratches before use. Glasses with defects can compromise safety.

Don't look directly at the Sun.

Never look directly at the Sun without proper eye protection during any eclipse. The intense sunlight can cause significant eye damage.

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Use pinhole projectors.

Create a pinhole projector to view the solar eclipse indirectly. This is a safe and simple way to observe the event without looking directly at damaging light.

No unprotected cameras or binoculars.

Do not use cameras, telescopes, or binoculars without solar filters. The concentrated sunlight through these devices can cause eye injury.

Keep an eye on kids.

Supervise children and ensure they use proper eye protection. Educate them about the dangers of looking directly at the eclipse.

RELATED: Learn more about the eclipse

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Header image: File photo courtesy of NASA