RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
August 3, 1999
ACCIDENT FEARS AS ECLIPSE DAY NEARS
Last-minute decisions to watch the total eclipse could spell disaster on land and at sea for ill-prepared people, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents warned today.
With a week to go, RoSPA is urging people to plan properly if they want to enjoy the eclipse in safety on August 11. The Society fears holidaymakers wanting a better view will take to the water in totally unsuitable craft or without the experience to be at sea in darkness.
Unseaworthy dinghies and inflatables are likely to be dragged from garden sheds by rookie sailors with no knowledge of safety in coastal waters.
"It will be all too easy for people to get caught up in the excitement and try to go out to watch the eclipse not realising they are putting themselves in danger," Peter Cornall, RoSPA Head of Water and Leisure Safety, said. "An unsuitable craft in the hands of someone without experience at sea is an accident waiting to happen.
"Others will have used boats a lot, but never in darkness. There is plenty of potential for collisions and falling overboard. It is vital that people viewing the eclipse from a boat know what they are doing and have the right safety gear.
"Viewing the eclipse from high vantage points like cliffs and rocks can also be dangerous. It’s not just a question of scrambling about in the dark, but also the possibility of being cut off by tides when people relax after the eclipse is over."
RoSPA warned campers to take care and check that their equipment was safe, particularly if they had not used it for some time. People using gas bottles must follow safety instructions to the letter and be certain that burners are still working properly if they have been in storage.
Children need to be supervised closely during the time of darkness so that they do not stray off.
*Motorists wanting to view the eclipse should also plan so that they can stop in a safe place when it begins.
As it begins to get dark switch on your lights and drive accustomed to the conditions.
Be aware that other drivers may not be paying full attention to the road and keep plenty of space around your vehicle. On no account should you try to view the eclipse while driving.
