August 11, 2017
Contact: Mary Enger, Communications Director, 636-949-1856, or 636-443-1008, menger@sccmo.org
(Until Aug. 16, contact Colene McEntee, Communications Manager, 636-949-1851, cmcentee@sccmo.org)
St. Charles County, Missouri – In preparation for the total eclipse on Aug. 21, the St. Charles County Division of Emergency Management is advising motorists to be mindful of traffic laws and to exercise safe driving practices with the increased volume of vehicles on area roadways.
“This is an exciting event for our community, with thousands of people expected to visit St. Charles County,” says Captain Chris Hunt, Director of the Division of Emergency Management. “We want to see everyone have a fun and safe experience.”
The division advises the following:
- By law, motorists are not allowed to park vehicles on roadways in ways that block or impede traffic. This includes stopping and parking on the shoulder of interstates and lettered and numbered routes such as Route N or Route 94. Those who do will have their vehicles towed immediately by law enforcement at the owner’s expense.
- Motorists should be prepared for a high volume of traffic on roads throughout the day. Traffic may be at a standstill for long periods of time on main thoroughfares and other roads. Congestion is expected to continue after the eclipse as people leave area events.
- Be aware that there will be a high volume of pedestrians in the area. Additionally, motorists should watch for children and use caution near schools, bus stops, daycares and playgrounds.
- Vehicle headlights need to be on during the eclipse.
- The Total Eclipse in the Park events at St. Charles County’s Klondike, Broemmelsiek, and Quail Ridge parks are at capacity and registration is closed. Those attending must have the parking pass included in the registration packet to enter the parks.
Additionally, the division and the Department of Public Health recommend the following health and safety tips:
- View the eclipse through ISO 12312-2 certified viewing glasses, welding glasses rated #14 or greater, telescopes or cameras containing a solar filter, or other approved devices. Do not use glasses or other devices if they have been damaged or do not fit properly. Motorists should not use these glasses while driving.
- While outdoors, use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher and insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, IR 3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Prepare for the weather and drink water to stay hydrated.
For additional eclipse safety tips and area resources, visit:
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