'Significant operational plan in place': Niagara Falls police address security risk concerns ahead of solar eclipse
Authorities say they've been working on planning public safety measures for over a year as the Ontario city preps to host more than a million people.
The Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) said it has a detail-oriented plan ready to ensure safety as thousands of people gather in the region over the weekend into Monday to observe the solar eclipse.
After Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati declared a pre-emptive state of emergency in anticipation of the huge influx of visitors and locals, some Canadians raised concerns over the probable "security risk" that may surface due to a massive crowd gathering.
"This solar eclipse is wonderful. But there is a dark side and I was wondering how much planning has gone into it? So many people gathering together can be a security risk for... the T word and the S word," Facebook user Doug Wedel shared in a group called Solar Eclipse Chasers last week.
Opening the forum to a larger discussion on public safety during the historic event, Wedel wondered if declaring a state of emergency would be enough of a measure to avoid any mishap.
"The state of emergency is just to handle so many people with things like cellphone signal, food and washrooms. But security could be an issue," he penned. "What would be some of the factors involved?
"How does a community go about planning for security for this kind of event and do it in a way that does not detract from the fun?"
Addressing these concerns, the NRPS told Yahoo Canada it has put in a year's worth of work into planning for Monday's rare celestial event.
"The Niagara Regional Police Service has been working with our local, provincial and federal partners for over a year on preparation for the eclipse," a spokesperson said.
The police reassured the spectators of providing a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience with increased vigilance across the region and support called in from their provincial partners.
"Those plans include increasing the police presence in the area. This is being supported by other police services in the province," the NRPS said.
When asked for specific details on the measures being taken to keep swathes of people out of harm's way, the NRPS spokesperson said "there is a significant operational plan in place" but "operational security prevents me from providing specific details from the plan."
The comments section on Wedel's Facebook post was filled with many others sharing similar concerns, while some chose to respond with solutions.
"sIf you are concerned about large crowds, find a small town and go their town centre or city park. That's what we're doing. You still get to share the experience with others, but in a more intimate setting," said a Facebook user.
"Emphasizing the ability to enjoy the eclipse from TV shows, news and social media shares is one approach, so people get in on the fun without having to be in the path of totality in person. They say a partial eclipse will be seen in every part of North America," another replied.
As far as other measures of preparedness are concerned, the NRPS told Yahoo Canada traffic congestions are very likely to happen with many road closures in place to manage all movement.
"Traffic congestion is anticipated to begin in the Niagara area Friday, April 5, 2024, and build until the time of the eclipse," the NRPS said. "Following the eclipse, congestion may continue as visitors attempt to the leave Niagara. The congestion will affect many local Niagara roads and provincial highways."
The police is urging public to consider carpooling, or using ridesharing services or public transportation to get to Niagara Falls. They also advise people to remain stocked up on essentials.
"Visitors should be prepared and have a full gas tank, extra water, medications and food," the NRPS spokesperson noted. "Planning ahead will assist with choosing routes in and out of Niagara during congestion.
"There is a very real possibility visitors may find them self stuck in traffic gridlock."
