American Red Cross prepares for total solar eclipse in Erie

[ERIE, MARCH 26, 2024] - The American Red Cross is prepared to keep Pennsylvanians safe as the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is expected to draw an estimated 200,000 people to the Erie area.

The Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Red Cross has been coordinating safety plans for months leading up to the eclipse. The Red Cross is prepared to respond to the challenges that an influx of visitors may present, while maintaining the capacity to respond to disasters in the area.

"Although all eyes will be focused on the total solar eclipse, it's important to remember that disasters such as home fires remain a daily threat," said Mary Rogers, executive director of the American Red Cross Northwestern Pennsylvania Chapter. "Our team has plans in place to provide comfort and care for those affected by disasters big and small. The safety of our communities is the number one priority."

With heavy traffic expected, the Red Cross will pre-position Disaster Action Team members at the Red Cross office in Erie so they will be immediately available to respond to a disaster and open an emergency shelter, if needed. Red Cross staff will also be staged at the Erie County Emergency Operations Center for the duration of the event.

The Red Cross is in regular communication with community partners and government agencies to coordinate plans around the eclipse and ensure we are collectively prepared for any contingency.

With many people expected to travel to view the total eclipse in Erie, there is a potential for major traffic issues and disruptions to communication systems, due to heightened demand. Follow these safety tips to be prepared:

• Pack an emergency kit in case you get stuck in traffic or can't find a place to stay. Include water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant if applicable, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items including toilet paper, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.
• Check the weather forecast ahead of time and plan accordingly.
• Keep your gas tank full so you don't run out while stuck in traffic.
• Let family or friends know where you are going and the route you plan to take to get there.
• Pick an easy to remember meeting location if someone gets separated from your group.
• Make a plan for where you'll stay overnight, if needed.
• Remember that looking directly at the sun is unsafe. NASA recommends eclipse eyewear with an IOS compliance label, or standard, of 12312-2.
• Download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you'll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for weather alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations and safety steps for different emergencies. Find these apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.