LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Those in the path of totality for the total solar eclipse on April 8 have already been seeing people prepare for large crowds.
Arkansas State Police is one state agency that has been gearing up for the big day and preparing to keep visitors and locals safe while driving on the interstates.
If you plan on driving during the eclipse, there are a few things you need to remember to keep not just yourself safe but others around you. One of ASP's main focuses is to keep traffic moving and you can help them do it.
"Our best advice for that is you don't pull over, don't stop on the interstate. Obviously, don't pull up to the shoulder. What that does is that causes a chain reaction, [and] could cause a bunch of crashes," said Captain Brad Lann with ASP.
So if you want to look up at the sky during totality, officials don't recommend being behind the wheel.
Captain Lann said they already expect traffic to move slowly.
"We anticipate an influx of visitors here, so we know the traffic's gonna be heavy," he added.
He also explained that traffic has already been picking up.
"We've seen a few out-of-state vehicles already. We would assume they're here for the Eclipse. But I noticed yesterday afternoon on my way home, there was a lot more traffic than normal," Captain Lann described.
Besides not stopping on or near the interstate, ARDOT has a few more "don'ts" for you to keep in mind.
They explained that people should not wear eclipse glasses while driving and should avoid travel immediately after the eclipse ends.
Captain Lann echoed that message and asked for everyone to have some patience.
"Pack plenty of food and water with you, make sure your gas tank is full. And that way, if you do have to stop on the interstate for a while, at least you've got those with you. But we're gonna do everything in our power to keep that traffic moving that way that doesn't happen," he explained.
Captain Lann also encourages anyone with a non-emergency to dial star 277 to connect you to the closest dispatch center.
When it comes to things you should do, ARDOT said to remember to turn on your headlights during the eclipse, watch for pedestrians, and check IDrive Arkansas for live traffic conditions.
You can also expect to see more state troopers out and about patrolling on the day of the eclipse.