Compiled with the help of artificial intelligence, based on Spanish-language information. Source below the article.
Special security operation for the solar eclipse
The Guardia Civil will deploy a special security operation in the Canary Islands this Wednesday, 12 August, comprising nearly 300 officers. Their mission is to guarantee public safety, keep traffic flowing and protect the environment during the solar eclipse. The province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife will see the largest share of the operation: the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Command will mobilise more than 150 officers, while around 142 agents from various specialist units will take part in the Las Palmas Command.
The astronomical event will turn Tenerife and the rest of the archipelago into one of the world’s key observation points, which is expected to trigger a significant surge in travel towards the summits and protected areas, including El Teide National Park. In order to manage the flow of people and prevent incidents, the Civil Guard – known affectionately as la Benemérita – will deploy land, sea and air resources across its various divisions.
Units involved and coordination
The operation will draw on the following specialist units: the Traffic Division, Public Safety units, the Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA), the Maritime Service, the Air Service, Fiscal and Border units, and the USECIC rapid response unit. The operation will work closely with the Canary Islands Government (PLATECA), the Cabildo of Tenerife, local police forces and emergency services (CECOES 112).
Advice for drivers and visitors
With the large numbers of visitors expected to travel to the island’s observation points, the Guardia Civil has issued a series of guidelines for drivers and pedestrians alike:
Plan ahead: Check the official observation points and any exclusion or road closure zones before leaving home.
Park responsibly: Parking on hard shoulders, forest tracks and narrow roads is prohibited, so as not to block access for emergency or rescue vehicles.
Respect the environment: Do not leave rubbish in the countryside, avoid trespassing on private farmland or agricultural land, and keep disruption to Tenerife’s protected flora and fauna in the forest crown to a minimum.
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