Dial 911 For Emergencies!!!

Save the non-emergency phone number for your local Police and Fire Departments in your phone ahead of time.

Looking directly at the Sun during a solar eclipse, except during the brief total phase ("totality") within the narrow path of totality, is unsafe and can cause serious eye damage. To safely view the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun, use special-purpose solar filters like "eclipse glasses" or hand-held solar viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Homemade filters or regular sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for solar viewing.

DO NOT:

• Look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or any optical device.

• Use your eclipse glasses or hand-held solar viewer while looking at the Sun through a camera, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device. The concentrated solar rays can damage the filter and cause serious injury to your eyes.

If you are in the path of totality, you may remove your solar filter only when the Moon completely covers the Sun's bright face and it becomes dark. Experience totality safely, and as soon as the bright Sun starts to reappear, put your solar viewer back on to observe the remaining partial phases.

With the upcoming solar eclipse event in Texas, both residents and visitors should anticipate increased activity on roadways, in neighborhoods, public facilities, restaurants, parks, and retail stores. Hotels, short-term rentals, and campgrounds are expected to reach peak capacity. As the large influx of people impacts highways, gasoline supply, and other basic needs, planning ahead becomes crucial for a smooth eclipse-viewing experience.

Here are some key tips to navigate transportation and travel during this event:

1. Expect Delays: Traffic backups are inevitable, so being prepared will minimize frustration for both visitors and residents.

2. Traffic Changes: Be aware that normal travel paths may be disrupted, and alternative routes might be necessary.

3. Be Prepared: If traveling, plan for your basic needs like food, water, fuel, and bathroom breaks in case of traffic delays.

4. Help Out: If possible, work from home or adjust your work schedule when local roadways are crowded. Avoid roads designated for eclipse event traffic. Using a bicycle when feasible can also help ease congestion.

5. Look Out for Each Other: This unique opportunity may bring potential hazards. Be friendly, helpful, and patient, especially towards travelers unfamiliar with the area.

6. Motor Vehicle Accidents: In the event of a minor accident, avoid calling 911 unless there are injuries, dangers, or leaking fluids. Move your vehicles safely to the side of the road and exchange insurance information.

7. Texas's "Move Over" Law: Comply with Texas's "move over" law, which requires drivers to move over a lane or slow down significantly when approaching emergency vehicles, law enforcement, tow trucks, utility service vehicles, TxDOT vehicles, or other highway construction or maintenance vehicles displaying visual signals or flashing lights on the roadside.

8. Mindful Parking: Ensure emergency vehicle access is maintained during large-scale events like the eclipse. In the city, park in your driveway or on your property to avoid obstructing first responders. In the county, park completely off the paved portion of the roadway to create sufficient room for emergency vehicles.

By adhering to these guidelines, we can all contribute to a safe and enjoyable eclipse experience for everyone in the City of Harker Heights.

Being equipped to handle minor injuries can be crucial in an emergency situation or when providing assistance to family and friends. While considering taking a first aid class is advisable, having essential supplies on hand can also help you effectively address bleeding, prevent infections, and aid in decontamination. A basic first aid kit with the following items will better prepare you to provide assistance when someone is injured:

Having these supplies readily available will enable you to provide prompt and effective care when needed, ensuring the well-being of yourself and those around you.

Medical Services in City of Harker Heights:

Hospitals:

Seton Medical Center Harker Heights
850 W Central Texas Expy, Harker Heights, TX 76548
(254) 690-0900
https://setonharkerheights.net/

Urgent Care / Walk-in Care Clinics:

Freedom Urgent Care
300 W Central Texas Expy , #115
Harker Heights, TX 76548
(254) 833-8456
https://freedomurgentcare.com/locations/harker-heights/

Express ER
980 Knight's Way Building 1, Ste. 100
Harker Heights, TX 76548
(254) 277-1459
https://expresserharkerheights.com/