Eclipse 2024: Is your family prepared?
Gone are the days when an eclipse was considered a sign of bad things to come. The 2024 eclipse is an anticipated event that can bring many economic benefits to the Garland County area, plus it is a historical occurrence that can be experienced as a family. Monday, April 8, will be a day to remember.
Events are being planned for the week before and after to encourage tourism and basically turn April into a holiday. To take advantage of the expected influx of visitors local businesses need to prepare now. A 2024 Eclipse Planning Resources for Businesses & Communities is available at uada.edu.
Preparation is the key not only for businesses but also for families. Arkansas Tourism is expecting anywhere from 1.5 to 2 times the state population over the weekend leading up to the solar eclipse. With that many extra people flooding into even the rural areas of our state, consider planning ahead like you would plan for an expected ice storm.
If you are traveling the week before or after the eclipse plan your route in advance and be prepared for delays. Follow designated routes and instructions from law enforcement and consider alternate routes not on map apps. Many school districts in the total eclipse path have already decided to close for the Friday before and the Monday of the eclipse due to potential traffic issues.
Stock up (for at least a week) on essential supplies like food, water, medications, batteries, and cash. It is possible that any supply shortages will not end directly after the event but could last for days. Be sure you have all the medicines and food needed for your pets, too. Make sure your vehicles are filled and you have enough gas to last through the week.
Prepare in advance how you will communicate with your family. Having a communication plan and a designated meeting point in case you get separated can help relieve worry especially if you are in a large crowd. Keep your cellphones fully charged and have a backup power source. Consider keeping a physical copy of your emergency contacts, in case of power outages or phone failures.
Hopefully, the April conditions will be full of those perfect spring days, but if you have spent even a few minutes in Arkansas, you know the weather can change quickly. Have appropriate clothing and supplies to be prepared for potential weather changes.
Many people in the path of totality are taking advantage of the potential to make money by allowing people to park or camp on their property.
If you do not want visitors on your property, make sure your property is properly marked and it is visible for individuals to see. Use the same guidelines for signage and marking as you would to prevent hunting.
Finally, consider eye safety. Teach your children about the importance of protecting their eyes during the event. Never look directly at the sun during the eclipse without certified solar viewing glasses. Purchase ISO 12312-2 compliant solar eclipse glasses from reputable vendors.
A total eclipse will not happen in the U.S. again for another 20 years. This is a great opportunity to make some memories that will last a lifetime but the best way to enjoy the moment is by being prepared. If you would like a more detailed handout to use as a guideline for planning how your family will prepare, contact the Garland County Extension Service. Call 501-623-6841, visit us at 210 Woodbine St., or email acrane@uada.edu.
Announcements
Register for the free child care provider training, The Best Care, to be held Feb. 17. Visit: http://tinyurl.com/3vs6srjj Mark your calendar for Feb. 28 for the free Wonderful Wednesdays! at the Garland County Library on Creating & Using Affirmations.
4-H information
There are 4-H clubs for Garland County young people who are 5 to 19 years old. For more information on all the fun 4-H activities that are available, call Sara Jackson at 501-623-6841 or email her at sjackson@uada.edu.
Master Gardener information
Master Gardener meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at the Elks Lodge. They’re open to the public and guests are welcome. For more information, call Arin Shaffer, horticulture agent, at 501-623-6841 or email him at ashaffer@uada.edu.
EHC information
Are you interested in joining an existing Extension Homemakers Club? EHC is the largest volunteer organization in the state. For information on EHC, call Alison Crane, family and consumer sciences agent, at 501-6236841 or email her at acrane@uada.edu.