TAMPA, Fla. — The eyewear company Warby Parker is giving away free solar eclipse glasses at its stores nationwide.
The glasses are ISO-certified glasses while supplies last. The store will provide up to two pairs for family and if they run out, employees will give you an eclipse pinhole projector.
There are three stores in the Tampa Bay area that you can visit.
If you aren't near a store, they also have a downloadable template on their website for an eclipse pinhole projector with instructions on how to make it.
You can find the closest store here.
The company is also donating money to Astronomers Without Borders, a non-profit organization building community through astronomy, to give back to the science community.
Stores will be donating gently used eclipse glasses for the organization to be distributed to educators and students around the world. People can bring their glasses back to a store before April 30.
Using proper eye protection is essential to watch the eclipse to prevent damage. Eyes are extremely sensitive to light and the retinal cells could be permanently damaged if directly exposed to the bright sun.
Although the Tampa Bay area won't see a total eclipse, it's still necessary to protect your eyes.
The American Astronomical advises standing still and covering your eyes with your eclipse glasses or handheld solar view before looking up at the bright sun.
Other stores that might sell glasses include grocery stories and office supply chains like Staples.