Buffalo Preparing for Solar Eclipse Event

As Buffalo gears up to host the solar eclipse, one of the most-watched celestial events of our lifetimes, the influx of visitors on April 8 presents opportunities and challenges for the hospitality industry.

Help ensure everyone’s safety: Join Visit Buffalo Niagara, the Erie County Executive’s office and partners for a special Eclipse Emergency Preparedness Workshop 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday, February 29 at the Buffalo Convention Center, 153 Franklin St.

Speakers include Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Visit Buffalo Niagara President and CEO Patrick Kaler, Deputy Erie County Commissioner of Homeland Security-Preparedness Greg Butcher, Erie County Emergency Services Coordinator Darien Pratchett, and Deputy Erie County Commissioner of Health-EMS Greg Gill.

They will talk about transportation safety, law enforcement, emergency planning and traffic management for hospitality venues. The presenters will also cover:

• First aid and CPR training suggestions

• Advice about large crowds in public spaces

• Distribution sites for safety glasses

• Pre-planning steps for communications services, guidelines for mobile phone service limitations and emergency channel options

• Public awareness campaigns and press conferences

Hospitality partners are encouraged and other interested parties to come to the free event. Registration required. Please go to https://uk.eventsforce.net/buffaloniagara/15/register.