Kendall County in Texas is gearing up to handle the upcoming annular eclipse with a comprehensive safety plan. Emergency Management Coordinator, Jeff Fincke, recently conducted a trial run with local first responders to ensure they are well prepared to handle any crises that may arise during the event.
Fincke expressed satisfaction with the trial run, stating that lessons learned from previous eclipse events have been incorporated into the safety plan. The main concern for authorities is the expected influx of visitors into already congested areas such as Boerne, Fredericksburg, and Bandera County. Experts predict that between 800,000 and 1.5 million people will flock to the region to witness this spectacular celestial event.
To ensure the smooth movement of emergency services, intersections and highways will be kept open. However, authorities anticipate a potentially overwhelming number of 911 calls during the eclipse. In order to avoid jamming emergency lines, Kendall County is contemplating opening a phone bank specifically for non-emergency calls.
Fire departments are also urging residents to take precautionary measures to reduce fire risks. People are being encouraged to cut their grass and maintain their lawns, minimizing the danger of wildfires in the area.
Additionally, resources such as internet access may be limited due to the large number of visitors. It is therefore advised to have paper maps and necessary supplies on hand. Authorities are recommending residents in prime viewing locations to stay home and stock up on essential items such as groceries, water, and fuel.
For those seeking ideal viewing locations, 17 Texas State Parks have been identified as prime spots. These parks offer excellent vantage points to witness the upcoming annular solar eclipse.
As the eclipse draws near, Kendall County is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of both residents and visitors. With their comprehensive safety plan and the collaboration of local authorities and emergency services, they are well equipped to handle any challenges that may arise during this celestial event.
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