MOUNT VERNON — Folks, the solar eclipse happening April 8 is less than a month away.
Most of Knox County stands in the line of totality for the event. According to NASA, the next total solar eclipse you’ll be able to see from the U.S. won’t happen until 2044.
Knox County government offices will remain open on April 8, county administrator Jason Booth said. The City of Mount Vernon will remain open for business, too.
The Mount Vernon Fire Department will be “ready to take additional EMS calls to cover a special event if requested to respond,” mayor Matt Starr said.
County fire, EMS and law enforcement agencies have formed a secondary radio communication plan in case there are issues with MARCS.
“In addition to that coordination and speaking with other public safety agencies in the area, we (Mount Vernon Police Department) are planning to maintain full staffing for the shifts,” Starr said.
“This will mean not approving any time off for scheduled members for that date and taking some extra steps to ensure equipment is prepared in the event we would need to call in extra personnel and assign them to vehicles.”
How to prepare
If you plan to travel outside of Knox County, be prepared to sit in traffic, according to Knox County Emergency Management.
Knox County is expecting an increase in traffic in the afternoon and evening.
If you are traveling out of county, prepare a “car kit” with extra water, snacks, cash, medication and anything else you might need while stuck in heavy traffic.
Other ways to prepare are to run errands early or before eclipse day; and fill your car’s gas tank before traveling.
Where to find solar eclipse-safe glasses in Knox County?
Mount Vernon’s Walmart Supercenter is selling eclipse glasses for $1.84; Almost Famous Sweets & Sodas a “Total Eclipse Survival Kit” that comes with two pairs of eclipse glasses and four mini moon pies to snack on while waiting for the eclipse to pass by.
Any there any solar eclipse events in Knox County?
A “Party at the Park” will be held at Ariel-Foundation Park — that “promises entertainment and learning for families, area residents and out-of-town guests.”
Columbus-based intergalactic rock band Shazzbots is traveling to Knox County to provide musical entertainment for the once-in-a-four-decade event.
The Clock House will also be open from noon to 4 p.m.
The City of Mount Vernon will remain open for business.
Heart of Ohio Business Association is hosting a solar eclipse event from noon to 4 p.m. at Table Rock Golf Course. Businesses include Build a Brew BBQ, CenterBean, Cookieburg and more.
What schools are doing?
All Knox County schools will either be closed or have early dismissal on the day of the eclipse.
All Fredericktown Local Schools students will receive solar eclipse glasses, courtesy of a $1,193.39 donation courtesy of the Fredericktown Education Association.
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