Safety Precautions Before, During, and After Volcanic Eruptions
Living near volcanoes is risky, especially if the volcanoes are active. However, the harmful effects of natural events like volcanic eruptions can be minimized if one is aware of what to do before, during, and after their occurrence. The following are some of the things that should be done when a volcanic disaster occurs:
What to Do Before a Volcanic Eruption
- You and your family should have an emergency supply kit at home. The kit should contain flashlights, batteries, first-aid materials, supplies of bottled water, nonperishable food, and medicines. The kit should be ready and available at all times. Each family member should know where the kit is kept at home.
You and your family should discuss an emergency preparedness plan for volcanic eruptions. The plan should include where to go when such natural event happens. Your plan should also include learning how to apply first-aid treatments.
Always listen to the radio or watch news programs on television to be updated on the developments of volcanic activities. Be aware of the alert level warning signals that the local officials and government agencies give. If you live near the volcano, listen to the warnings for evacuation. Those in danger zones should evacuate immediately when prompted. You must find a safe shelter before the eruption, away from ashfall, lava, and lahar flows.
Prepare goggles or gas masks for you and your family. These objects will be your protection from the ash and dust that will be emitted by the volcano.
Be attentive when your school conducts regular emergency drills to familiarize pupils like you on what to do when a volcano erupts.
