It is very dangerous to look directly at the sun at any time, but during an eclipse the temptation to have a quick glance can be very strong. 

To avoid damaging your retinas when viewing the solar eclipse:

• Do not view the eclipse at all or use a proper method of blocking the sun's dangerous rays while viewing.
• Use a filter that blocks all dangerous light. To do this, you must use ISO-certified eclipse glasses from a reputable vendor that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. The manufacturer's name and address must be printed on the product.
• Do not use any viewer if it has scratched or wrinkled lenses.

What to avoid

• Ordinary sunglasses or multiple pairs of sunglasses
• Neutral density or polarizing filters, such as those made for camera lenses.
• Smoked glass.
• Photographic or X-ray film (unexposed, exposed or developed)
• Eclipse glasses with a binocular or telescope 
• Garbage bags, coffee cups, and any other do-it-yourself filters

• Promote Carpooling and Ridesharing to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
• Implement Flexible Work Hours: Employers should be considering flexible work schedules, or staggered start and end times to reduce peak-hour traffic congestion.
• Active Transportation: Encourage walking, cycling, and other forms of active transportation to move about Niagara Falls and the tourist district.
• Encourage Telecommuting and Remote Work: Promote telecommuting and remote work options for employees to reduce the need for commuting altogether, thereby decreasing traffic congestion during peak hours.
• Commercial Vehicles and Large Trucks should plan accordingly to not add to the congestion or have loads delayed in traffic.
• Distracted Driving: Defensive driving is always the best approach. Distracted driving (smart phone use, talking, eating, and taking photos) can lead to a collision further compounding traffic congestion.
• Stopping in Safe and Prohibited Locations: Drivers expect the normal flow of traffic on roadways and highways.  Vehicles randomly pulling over to take photos can lead to congestion and collisions.
• Mass Transit: Consider using a train to come to and leave Niagara.
• Construction and Road Crews: Should plan to limit work to emergency or time-sensitive circumstances.

Preparing for a solar eclipse involves ensuring safety and maximizing the experience. Here are ten emergency preparedness tips:

1. Protect Your Eyes: Never look directly at the sun without proper eye protection, such as solar viewing glasses or eclipse glasses. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient to protect your eyes during a solar eclipse.
2. Plan Your Viewing Location: Choose a safe and unobstructed location to view the eclipse, away from tall buildings, trees, or other obstacles that may block your view.
3. Stay Informed: Keep updated with weather forecasts and any local advisories regarding the eclipse. Be aware of any potential hazards or emergency situations that may arise.
4. Bring Supplies: Pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and protective clothing to ensure your comfort during the eclipse. Consider bringing a first aid kit and any necessary medications. 
5. Use Caution When Driving: If you plan to travel to view the eclipse, exercise caution while driving and be aware of increased traffic congestion. Avoid stopping on highways or other busy roads to view the eclipse.
6. Protect Pets: Keep pets indoors or under supervision during the eclipse to prevent them from looking directly at the sun or experiencing any anxiety or confusion due to changes in light.
7. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you'll be spending extended periods outdoors during the eclipse. Dehydration can occur quickly, particularly in hot weather.
8. Monitor Children: Keep a close eye on children during the eclipse to ensure they don't look directly at the sun or engage in unsafe behavior. Provide them with proper eye protection and educate them about eclipse safety. In the large crowds it is important to keep an eye on children and vulnerable people. Have a plan if people get separated. A group photo when starting off could help identify and locate a member of the group if they become separated or lost.
9. The Darkness: Be prepared for a sudden decrease in light during a total solar eclipse. Bring flashlights or lanterns if you'll be outdoors during the event and familiarize yourself with your surroundings.
10. Have a Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with family members or travel companions in case of emergency. Agree on a meeting point or method of contact in case you become separated during the eclipse.

By following these emergency preparedness tips, you can safely enjoy the awe-inspiring experience of a solar eclipse while minimizing potential risks.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable event we ask that residents and visitors consider the below tips:

Steer It and Clear It - Eclipse traffic is expected to be heavy with areas projected to see significant congestion. If you are involved in a collision, first assess if anyone is injured.  If there are minimal injuries and the vehicles involved are drivable; clear the roadway to a safe spot so that traffic can continue to move. Report the collision to the proper authorities using the NRPS nonemergency number (905-688-4111) or 911 if needed.  

Distracted Driving - Distracted driving continues to be a major safety factor on Ontario roadways. Distracted driving is the cause of hundreds of collisions across Niagara every year. Distracted driving, combined with congested roads and the eclipse event may compound problems on roadways in Niagara. The use of a handheld communication device while operating a motor vehicle in Ontario may result in a fine over $600.00 for a first offence. 

Parking - Visitors to Niagara are reminded to park in designated parking spaces and be on the lookout for signage marking an area as prohibited parking. Motorists who park in prohibited areas or park in a way that causes an unsafe situation or further congestion may find their vehicle has been towed at their expense.

Patience - Traffic congestion in large crowds can cause frustration. We ask that visitors coming to the area pack their patience and be prepared for delays.

Bikes Locked Up  - Active transportation such as riding a bike or walking can be a great way to get around traffic congestion related to motor vehicles. If you are bringing your bike to Niagara, we encourage you to ride safe, right defensively, be seen, wear a helmet, and secure your bike in a safe place when not in use e.g., hotel room.

Eye Safety - It is imperative when taking part in the eclipse event that you wear certified ISO safety glasses to protect your eyes when looking at the eclipse. Failing to do so could result in permanent eye damage.

Pedestrian Safety – Pedestrians are requested to use caution when walking and to stay on the sidewalk. It is important to cross at designated crosswalks and intersections following the proper traffic signals. 

Lost Family Members Prevention

• Take a photo of the family at the start of the day. It is a great keepsake that could help find a missing person, identifying clothing that is being worn that day. 
• Identify family rendezvous points during the day. Much like an emergency in your home, this is a spot where everyone can meet if they do get separated in a crowd.
• Find a uniformed officer and report the missing child or vulnerable person a soon as possible.

Lock It or Lose It – It is important to leave your car locked with the windows up. Valuables should not be left in a vehicle but if you must they should be left out of sight or concealed.

Stay off the Rail – The historic safety guard rail that is along the Niagara River has kept millions of visitors safe for decades. Sitting or standing on top the guard rail is dangerous and increases the risk of falling or injury. 

Reasons to Call 911 - For emergency assistance, dial 9-1-1 on your telephone. An operator will answer your call and determine what service is required. You will then be connected to either the police, fire, or ambulance service in your area.  Please stay on the line until you are told to hang up. Let the operator control the conversation and answer all questions as best you can. In emergency situations, help is on the way as you are giving the information. A situation is where the safety of people or property is at risk. Examples of 9-1-1 emergencies include: a fire; crime in progress; or a medical crisis.

No People or Pets Left in Cars – Whether it be an overcast or sunny day, the interior of a car or van can heat up quickly placing a person or pet left inside at jeopardy. A vehicle with the window left ajar can still see deadly increases in the interior temperature.