The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is ready to welcome visitors to its parks and wildlife areas for Monday’s total solar eclipse.

News Center 7 is your Eclipse station. Join our coverage beginning Monday with News Center 7′s Daybreak at 4:25 am and our special coverage beginning at 2 pm.

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ODNR expects its outdoor locations in and near the path of totality to be crowded and reminds everyone visiting to practice patience.

The department has a few tips to help visitors better prepare before coming into the parks:

• Pack extra food, water, and medication.

• Bring a raincoat, hand warmers, toiletries, and extra toilet paper.

• Wear layers and prepare for any unpredictable weather.

• Arrive at parks and wildlife areas early. ODNR locations will open at 6 a.m.

• After the eclipse, stay late to avoid traffic jams.

• Cell phone service may be limited due to heightened network use.

• Don’t forget eclipse glasses. The department will have a limited supply at its locations.

• Always supervise children using eclipse glasses.

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For those who are spending the night in state park campgrounds, ODNR has a few tips to ensure a better stay:

• Dress in layers.

• Remove sweaty clothes at night. Damp clothing will keep you cold and can trap bacteria.

• Use an insulated camp pad or double up your padding.

• Pack the right sleeping bag. Ensure your bag is rated for cold temperatures.

• Warm up with a hot water bottle and put it in your sleeping bag to warm up. Don’t use a metal bottle.

• Eat properly and stay hydrated.