Stowe Mountain Rescue offers eclipse safety tips

The prospect of thousands of visitors and locals out in the backcountry during Monday’s eclipse is slightly sobering for Stowe Mountain Rescue.

“The sheer numbers involved makes us suspect that we’ll receive multiple calls toward the end of the day, which is going to be a logistical challenge,” the team said in a press release.

The mountain rescue squad suggests these safety tips:

• Stay in the valleys: There is plenty of open space to safely view the eclipse. Most high-elevation trails will be closed, as is normal for this time of year. Foot traffic is very damaging on a muddy trail, so the Green Mountain Club keeps them closed until mudseason ends.

• This time of year isn’t quite wintery enough to make you think it’s winter, yet it is cold enough to give you hypothermia. Wherever you end up, pack extra layers, more than you think you’ll need. It will be cold.

• Whether they’re covered in snow, ice or mud remains, the trails are guaranteed to be slick. Proper boots are essential and microspikes may be required. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or not, a local or a visitor, there will be the risk of slipping.

• Be self-sufficient. If you end up needing our help, it may be many hours before someone can reach you. Think warmth, food, water, headlamps, extra batteries. Even if you don’t need this stuff, you may encounter someone who does.

• Alcohol and drugs don’ mix in the backcountry and cause diminished coordination and an inhibited ability to stay warm.

• Local roads are anticipated to have heavy traffic, which will contribute to delayed response times.