TEXAS, USA — The Texas Department of Public Safety is offering tips on how to prepare and be safe during the solar eclipse.
DPS says the support for communities will be dependent on the needs of state and local partners and may include traffic control, manning Emergency Operations Centers, patrolling high traffic areas and providing emergency response services.
These are tips that DPS wants Texans to know:
- Drivers should not stop on roads to observe the eclipse. Drivers who want to observe the eclipse should pull over, clear of traffic and away from being hit by other vehicles. Watch out for others who may not pick the best places to stop.
- If driving during the eclipse, focus on the road—don’t look at the eclipse or wear eclipse glasses while driving. Drivers may need to activate vehicle lights during the eclipse due to lack of sunlight. Texas law requires vehicle lights to be activated any time visibility is less than 1,000 feet.
- Plan your travel in advance and expect traffic delays. Consider carpooling to reduce the number of vehicles on the road. Leave space and increase following distance. You should expect stop and go traffic. Please avoid non-essential travel, if possible.
- Make a communication plan with your family and friends during the eclipse in case cell phone service is impacted. Large numbers of people can temporarily overload cellular provider towers.
- Keep a full tank of gas, as well as water, snacks and other supplies in your vehicle.
DPS is also urging people to be courteous and patient with others, especially as the state anticipates a large number of drivers on the roads for this historic event.