Editor's note: the following was submitted by Brown County Sheriff John Merchant

I have had many people who are concerned about the solar eclipse on August
the 21st and the possibility of a large number of people coming in to the
county to witness the event.  I thought I would share with you some
information that I have received and information on what we can all do to
make this event as safe, enjoyable and productive as possible.

By talking with  several state agencies,  we have all agreed that there is
just no way to predict  how many people will be coming in to Brown County
or other areas of the state where the eclipse will be prevalent.     There
have been many estimates, but until that day arrives, we will just have to
make sure we are prepared to handle whatever comes our way.  I know we will
see an increase of people that day and I am confidant that all will go
well.

I have been monitoring many sources of information on the event, and many
residents have kept me aware  of those coming in to camp out ahead of the
event and where they will be staying.  From what I have been told so far,
there are at least a dozen areas or more where there could be a large
number of campers and the area hotel rooms have been spoken for many weeks
ago.   We are expecting people to start arriving Saturday the 19th,  and
most leaving Monday after the eclipse which is shortly after 1 p.m.

I would like our county residents to know that we are planning on meeting
the needs of any issues that should arise from this event.  It is very
important that our roadways stay cleared for any emergency vehicles that
need to respond to those in need and I will have extra deputies staffed
throughout the county.  Extra  dispatch and jail staff will also be
available if needed.

Many people have asked me how they can prepare should our county have an
abundance of people which could severely impact routine travel and
business as usual.   My suggestion was to plan as if a major winter storm
was coming.  Make sure to have plenty of food, water,groceries, formula,
diapers,medicine and  gasoline in your vehicles etc.   Allow extra time if
you have to travel on this date as our area is not the only one to be
affected by this event.

If you are planning on viewing the event. we stress to everyone to make
sure you have the appropriate eye protection.  Parents, make sure to inform
your kids on the proper way to view this eclipse.

I also want to stress that residents do not need to panic, many agencies
and provisions are in place for your safety during  this event and we will
do our best to make sure it is safe and enjoyable for all.  Should you have
any concerns, questions or information we should know about, please feel
free to contact me at 785-742-7125

Sheriff John D Merchant
Brown County Sheriff's Office