03/26/2024
With the solar eclipse less than two weeks away, we want to share some safety tips with the public. The information below is based on what has occurred in other parts of the country during a total solar eclipse.
•It is recommended that you stay at home if possible. The population in Lake County is expected to quadruple. Please reschedule any appointments that can be rescheduled. If you do have to go out, make sure to have water and snacks in your vehicle.
•Expect delays and be patient. During the eclipse, drive with your headlights on. If you stop to watch the eclipse, find a safe location and do not park on the main roadways. Watch for pedestrians.
•Fill up your gas tanks.
•Shop for a week's worth of essential home items such as food and water. Keep cash on hand for emergencies as credit card readers may experience service interruptions.
•It is important to be aware that there may be disruptions in cell phone service due to the significant increase in population, starting as early as April 7th and continuing through April 9th. While WiFi routers are not expected to be affected, there is still a possibility of interruption.
•When dialing 911 from a cell phone, calls are received by Central Communications and then transferred to Mentor-on-the-Lake. However, 911 calls made from a landline (house phone) go directly to Mentor-on-the-Lake. It is advisable to have the phone numbers of your local safety forces written down or programmed into your phone. For non-emergencies, you can contact Mentor-on-the-Lake Dispatch at (440) 257-7234 or (440) 257-7235, and for emergencies, dial (440) 257-5555. It is important to have a plan in place with your family and children.
•Please remember to secure your pets as the increase in traffic raises the risk of pets getting struck.
•If you plan to watch the solar eclipse, make sure you have solar eclipse glasses that comply with ISO 12312-2 international standards, as well as sunscreen. For safety information from NASA, click on the following link: Safety (nasa.gov)
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•The police department will have additional personnel on the road and in dispatch.