Richland County, OH, Eclipse Business Resource Center
Preparing Your Business for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse
Welcome to the Richland County Total Solar Eclipse Business Resource Center. As we prepare for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, we understand that local businesses play a vital role in our community’s well-being and economic vitality. This dedicated resource is designed specifically for business owners and operations managers who seek valuable information and support to navigate this extraordinary celestial event’s unique challenges and opportunities.
Our objective is to provide you with comprehensive guidance and practical resources to empower your business to thrive during the eclipse while ensuring your customers’ and employees’ safety and satisfaction. We hope you find the information and guidance to equip you to make well-informed decisions that will contribute to the continued success of your business. The Richland Area Chamber & Economic Development is committed to supporting our local business community, and we’re here to assist you every step of the way.
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When: The Total Solar Eclipse will occur in Richland County on April 8, 2024, at 3:12 p.m.,
and will last approximately 3 minutes and 16 seconds.
How Could the Eclipse Affect My Business?
Richland County is situated directly in the path of totality for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, a remarkable celestial event spanning 124 miles and stretching across 13 states, from Texas to New Hampshire. As a result, it is possible that the population of Richland County may double or even triple as visitors flock to our region to experience this rare phenomenon. If you are a business owner or operations manager, it’s crucial to understand how this event could impact your business. Here are some key considerations:
- Increased Visitors: Depending on your location, you may experience an influx of visitors looking to witness the eclipse. This could lead to increased foot traffic and potential sales for businesses in the path of totality.
- Traffic Congestion: With more people on the roads, traffic congestion could affect your employees, deliveries, and customer access.
- Supply Chain: There may be disruptions in the supply chain due to increased demand or transportation challenges, affecting inventory.
- Employee Attendance: Anticipate employee attendance challenges due to increased traffic congestion potentially impeding commutes, school closures necessitating childcare responsibilities, and the totality timing coinciding with shift changes.
- Promotional Opportunities: The eclipse presents opportunities for businesses to run special promotions or events that cater to eclipse watchers.
- Safety Precautions: Safety should be a top priority. Prepare for potential challenges like increased emergency service demand and customer safety concerns.
How to Prepare
- Explore Promotional Opportunities: Identify ways to promote your business during the eclipse, such as offering eclipse-themed products, events, or discounts to attract customers and visitors.
- Consider Remote Work or Closure: Evaluate the feasibility of implementing remote work options or closing your business on April 8th for eclipse preparedness. Keep in mind that internet issues are highly probable, so working from home could be impacted.
- Update Your Business Continuity Plan: Include eclipse-specific considerations and procedures in your business continuity plan to ensure resilience during this unique event.
- Prepare Your Staff for Eye Safety: Ensure your employees are informed about the importance of eye safety and provide certified solar eclipse glasses.
- Adjust Schedules for Traffic: Consider flexible work hours or remote work options to minimize disruptions caused by increased traffic.
- Plan for School Closures: Anticipate the potential impact of school closures on employees with school-aged children and plan accordingly.
- Manage Parking Challenges: Designate specific parking areas and communicate parking arrangements to employees and visitors.
- Address Facilities Needs: Assess whether facilities like portable toilets (port-a-pots) are necessary to accommodate increased visitors. If your business does plan to have these available, ordering as soon as possible is highly recommended due to the expected demand.
- Backup Communication Systems: Establish alternative communication methods and emergency contact procedures due to potential disruptions in county communication systems.
- Prepare for Utility Disruptions: Develop contingency plans for potential utility disruptions, including power outages and sewage system issues.
- Stock Essential Supplies: Ensure you have adequate supplies, such as disaster relief kits, charging stations, and food preparation resources.
- Collaborate with Local Authorities: Engage with local authorities, neighboring businesses, and community organizations to enhance preparedness and coordination.
- Stay Informed: Subscribe to RC Alerts to continuously monitor updates and information related to the eclipse to adapt your preparations as needed.
Resources
Notifications Alert System
Subscribe to RC Alerts for vital emergency and community updates via multiple channels. It’s a free service by Richland County, enhancing safety and communication.
Local Viewing Sites
Find prime eclipse observation sites located in Richland County, Ohio, complete with maps, amenities, and safety information, ensuring a memorable experience.
Power Outage Toolkit
A power-outage business continuity plan is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted operations, preserving data integrity, and safeguarding against potential disruptions.
Eye Safety
Explore trusted solar filter and viewer suppliers, and recommendations for use as endorsed by the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force for safety and ISO 12312-2 compliance.
Emergency Supply List
Distribute an emergency supply list to educate your employees, enabling them to prepare effectively for unforeseen events, safeguarding their safety, well-being, and business continuity.
Local Emergencies
Access local non-emergency phone numbers for convenient contact with community services, agencies, and support organizations in your area. For emergencies, dial 911.
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