Coast Guard issues bulletin regarding Lake Erie and eclipse

*The above photo shows the phases of the total solar eclipse*

CLEVELAND (WJW) — The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a Marine Safety Information Bulletin for Lake Erie boaters regarding this Monday’s April 8 total solar eclipse.

“We will be setting up a communications command center, bringing in extra Coast Members, boats and helicopters to focus on safety April 8,” said Lieutenant Phillip Gurtler.

“We expect a lot of boat activity on Lake Erie for the eclipse,” Gurtler told Fox 8 News.

According to the Coast Guard boater bulletin, “While offering stunning celestial display, the eclipse may present challenges and potential distractions for those who navigate and operate commerical vessels on the Great Lakes.”

The Coast Guard safety tips are also for recreational boaters primarily on on Lake Erie and other parts of the lower Great Lakes.

The most unique safety tip offered by the Coast Guard states:

“Be aware that rapid changes in light may affect spatial perception and visibility.”

Boaters are also urged to remember to turn on their navigation lights because darkness will fall fast during the eclipse starting just after 3 p.m. in Cleveland.

Safety forces also say to have someone on the boat be a lookout and have flashlights ready.