In Light of Increased Volcanic Activity, How Should You Prepare for an Eruption?

In light of recent increased activity and a raised alert level for Alaska's Cleveland Volcano as well as other activity at volcanoes around the world, adding volcano preparedness to your general preparedness plans is wise. While Cleveland is located in a remote area, there are many volcanoes worldwide that are situated in populated areas and it is estimated that areas within a 100 mile radius of an erupting volcano may be at risk. Even if you do not live near a volcano, ash from eruptions can affect wide areas and cause disruptions to travel and other aspects of daily life.

There is no such thing as being too prepared, and the U.S. Geological Survey and the Federal Emergency Management Agency offer tips and information about what to do before, during and after a volcanic eruption. For more complete information and tips on staying safe during a volcanic eruption, visit the FEMA website and the USGS website.

Before an Eruption

Add a couple of items to your emergency preparedness kit. While general emergency kits are fine, to prepare for ash from a volcano, you should add goggles and breathing masks for each person in your family. Whether the volcano you live near is active or is dormant, you should never forget it is there and be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice if the unthinkable happens.

Knowledge is power so staying informed of current threat levels by checking USGS websites is your first line of defense. The USGS Volcano Hazards Program provides current information and alert updates on volcanoes in the United States.

During an Eruption

If a volcano erupts near you, first and foremost -- stay calm. Panic can only make things worse. If evacuations are ordered for your area, follow instructions given by authorities and leave as quickly as possible.

Be aware of the risk of mudflows which can move very fast. If you are crossing a bridge, be sure to look upstream before attempting to cross and don't go if you see a mudflow coming. Try to avoid low areas such as river valleys.

Don't forget your neighbors. Try to help those around you who are also trying to get to safety.

What about the volcanic ash?

Volcanic ash from an eruption can be a real nuisance and it can be hazardous to boot. Knowing what to do with it and about it is important and the USGS website offers an extensive site detailing how to deal with ash.

FEMA also offers several important tips for dealing with ash during an eruption such as stay downwind if you are outdoors and if at all possible, go indoors and stay there until the ash settles. You should also close up all openings in your home -- windows, doors, ventilation openings (vents, chimneys, air conditioners, furnaces, fans).

Use a dust mask (which you previously packed in your emergency kit) to aid with breathing or hold a damp close to your face.

FEMA recommends not running vehicles during ash fall and not driving a vehicle unless absolutely necessary. If you must drive, it is recommended that you keep speeds at 35 miles per hour or less. This is because driving can agitate and stir up dust and ash, which can clog your vehicles engine, causing damage and resulting in stalling of the vehicle.

Tammy Lee Morris is certified as a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) member and is a trained Skywarn Stormspotter through the National Weather Service. She has received interpretive training regarding the New Madrid Seismic Zone through EarthScope -- a program of the National Science Foundation. She researches and writes about earthquakes, volcanoes, tornadoes, weather and other natural phenomena.