HEMPSTEAD COUNTY FAMILY PREPAREDNESS ECLIPSE F.A.C.S.

As the April 8,2024 Solar Eclipse rapidly approaches, we would like to share the family Preparedness
Plan for residents in Hempstead County, Arkansas. We will be sharing other eclipse related information
put out by our state office as they become available on our Facebook page: UADA Hempstead County
Cooperative Extension
1. Stay informed:
• -Follow official sources for updates on the eclipse, such as the Hempstead County Office of
Emergency Mangement and local news and radio channels.
• -Stay connected through social media and sign up for Code Red emergency alerts.
Sources to follow on social media to stay up to date on local news during the event:
HopePrescott.com, HOPE PRESCOTT NEWS, SWARK TODAY
Hempstead County Judge-
–Know how to get in touch with Rural Fire Departments in your area of the county.
2. Plan for travel and traffic:
• -Treat this event like an ice storm. If you do have to travel, plan your travel in advance, consider
the expected influx of visitors to the area.
• -Consider alternate or non-conventional routes not found on google or apple maps.
• -Be aware of potential traffic congestion and allow extra time for your journey.
• -Follow designated routes and instructions for law enforcement.
“The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture offers all its Extension and Research programs and
services without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age,
disability, marital or veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and is an Affirmative
Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.”
3. Supplies:
• -Stock up (for at least a week) on essential supplies like food, water, batteries, and cash.
• -Purchase extra items from now until April 8 to cut down on last minute unexpected expenses.
• -Consider having prescriptions refilled early if possible-call your pharmacy now to discuss this.
• -Supply Shortages will not end directly after the event but likely last for days following.
• -Consider any specific needs of family members, such as infants, elderly, or individual with
• Medical conditions, especially those that are diabetic or require oxygen.
• -If you have an infant on formula, make sure to have extra on hand during and after the eclipse.
• -Have a first aid kit, flashlight, and portable charger on hand.
• -Have enough gas for at least a week after the event just in case supplies are stretched.
4. Have a communication Plan:
• -Establish a communication plan with your family and decide on a meeting point in case you get
separated.
• -Keep cell phones fully charged and have a backup power source.
• -Landlines will possibly be the best option during the event due to the amount of people and lack
of coverage.
• -share contact information with trusted neighbors and friends.
5. Know your emergency contacts:
• -Save important phone numbers, including local emergency services, on your phones.
• -Keep a physical list of emergency contacts in case of power outages or phone failures.
6. Be Weather Aware:
• -Stay updated on the weather forecast leading up to the eclipse.
• -Prepare for potential weather changes by having appropriate clothing and supplies.
• -Have a weather radio on hand.
7. Prepare for Proper Eye Safety:
• -Never look directly at the sun during the eclipse without certified solar viewing glasses
• -Purchase ISO 12312-2 compliant solar eclipse glasses from reputable vendors.
• -Teach children about the importance of eye safety during the event.
8. Take Care of Pets
• -Ensure your pets have identification tags and are kept in a safe, secure area during the eclipse.
• -Stock up on pet food, water, and any necessary medications.
9. Prepare for visitors:
• -If you do not want visitors on your property, make sure your property is properly marked and
visible for individuals to see
• -Use purple paint and use signs placed not more than 100ft apart and at each road entrance.
• -The signs should bear the words “POSTED” and/or “NO TRESPASSING” in letters at least 4
inches high. The signs should be readily visible to any person approaching the property.
REMEMBER, this preparedness plan is a general guideline.
Adapt it to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.
For more information, contact Terrie James at the Hempstead Co. Extension office at (870) 777-5771