- guardian.co.uk, Monday August 9 1999 16.21 BST
Bear in mind, for a start, that it will go very dark. So whether you're moving or safely parked up get your lights on ready for the blackout. If you are driving, don't be tempted to gawp up through the sunroof. Aside from the obvious risks of not looking at the road ahead, your retinas will receive permanent hatch markings. Do not, however, try driving while peering through a pin-hole in a piece of paper.
If you are thinking of bringing your cat or dog along for the ride, don't: "Animals are hugely sensitive to the climatic changes that come with an eclipse and they may well start jumping around inside your car," says the Scottish RAC. New road hazards will also arise: bats, badgers, foxes and deer (watch out for that total eclipse of the hart - sorry) will think it's time for an evening out.
Monks are another hazard: the RAC warns about "drivers who have been out of the country, living in a monastery or without media access for the past six months and are frightened by the sudden onset of darkness at 11.11am."
Speaking of berths, Cornwall's total obfuscation may well trigger a new caravan speed record, thanks to the phenomenon of eclipse gusts. If it's a tail wind, make sure you've left the handbrake on.
If caravans make you angry, you may well be suffering from "eclipse rage" but fear not, the Samaritans (0345 909090) have identified the risk and will be on hand to help soothe your nerves. And finally, no need to preach about the risks of drinking and driving. Refuse any roadside refreshment, particularly Cornwall's celebratory brew, Daylight Robbery.
• Met Office Eclipse Line: 09003 500499 (60p per minute). Devon County Council's Eclipse Centre: 01392 385440.
