With less than 24hrs until the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse, the Niagara Region is seeing the arrival of visitors to its cities and towns. This spectacular event will last almost four minutes, starting at 2:04 p.m. and ending at 4:33 p.m., with totality occurring at 3:18 p.m.

Solar eclipse - Figure 1
Photo niagarapolice.ca

The City of Niagara Falls is currently seeing an increase in vehicular and pedestrian traffic, particularly in the tourist area. 

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.

For more information on how to have a safe and enjoyable eclipse event, click here. 

For more information please also visit the Region of Niagara website LINK

Related Media Releases

Solar Eclipse Niagara – Road Closures – Niagara Falls and Fort Erie – April 5, 2024 Media Advisory 1 - Solar Eclipse 2024 – March 21, 2024 Solar Eclipse 2024 – March 8, 2024

To contact officers from the Niagara Regional Police Service 

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