Overall
Why Prepare?
Citizen
Local
State
Federal
Basic Preparedness
Getting Informed
Planning and
Checklists
Special Needs
Disaster Supplies Kit
Shelter
Others
Natural Hazards
Floods
Hurricanes
Thunderstorms and lightning
Tornadoes
Winter storms and extreme cold
Extreme heat
Earthquakes
Volcanoes
Landslides and debris flow
Tsunamis
Fires
Wildfires
Technological Hazards
Hazardous materials incidents
Household chemical emergencies
Nuclear power plant emergencies
Terrorism
Explosions
Biological threats
Chemical threats
Nuclear blasts
Radiological dispersion device events
Recovering from Disaster
Health and safety guidelines
Returning home
Seeking disaster assistance
Coping with disaster
Helping others
|
Volcano
A volcano is a vent which molten rock escapes through to the
surface of the earth. An eruption happens when pressure from
gases within the molten rock becomes too great. There may be
lava flows, flattened landscapes, poisonous gases, flying
rock and ash.
Because of their intense heat, lava flows are great fire
hazards. Lava flows destroy everything in their path, but
most move slowly enough that people can move out of the way.
Fresh volcanic ash, made of pulverized rock, can be
abrasive, acidic, gritty, gassy, and odorous. While not
immediately dangerous, the acidic gas and ash can cause lung
damage to infants, older adults, and individuals with severe
respiratory illnesses.
Volcanic eruptions can be accompanied by other natural
hazards, including earthquakes, mudflows and flash floods,
rock falls and landslides, acid rain, fire, and tsunamis.
Even a volcano thought inactive can suddenly erupt. Pay
attention to any reports of volcanic activity and be
prepared for any possible eruption.
Take Protective Measures
What can I do Before a Volcanic Eruption?
Add a pair of goggles and disposable breathing mask for each
member of the family to your disaster kit
Stay away from the immediate area of active volcano sites
What do I do During a Volcanic Eruption?
Evacuate immediately from the volcano area to avoid flying
debris, hot gases, lateral blast and lava flow
Be aware of mudflows
Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas
Protection from Falling Ash
Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants
Use goggles and war eyeglasses instead of contact lenses
Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help
with breathing
Stay away from areas downwind from the volcano to avoid
volcanic ash
Stay indoors until the ash has settled unless there is a
danger of the roof collapsing
Close doors, windows and all ventilation in the house
Clear heavy ash from flat or low-pitched roofs and rain
gutters
Avoid running car or truck engines
If you have to drive, keep speed down to 35 MPH or slower
What do I do After a Volcanic Eruption?
Follow the instructions for recovering from a disaster.
|
