How to Prepare for a Volcanic Eruption

Today there are more than 500 active volcanoes in the world. During an eruption, the impact hurls rock debris that can set buildings on fire and cause windows to break. Noxious fumes are also released, endangering people who live within 100 miles of the eruption.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Battery Radios
• Dust Masks
• Safety Goggles
• Cellular Phone Batteries
• Cellular Phone Covers/carrying Cases
• Cellular Phone Minutes
• Cellular Phone Services
• Cellular Phones

1. Check with the local police department to find out what type of community evacuation plan is in place, if you live anywhere near a volcano.
2. Learn your community's warning system, in the event of an eruption.
3. Be prepared for the impact a volcanic eruption can have - earthquakes, flash floods, landslides, mudflows and thunderstorms.
4. Plan an evacuation route, taking the highest ground to escape the effects of the eruption. Have a backup route planned as well.
5. Determine how you will contact your family if separated during an evacuation. You may want to use a family or friend who lives out of state as the contact person whom everyone will call.
6. Stock up on supplies, such as a flashlight and batteries, a battery-operated radio, first aid kit and cans of food and water.
7. Purchase goggles and a disposable breathing mask for each family member.
8. Leave the area at the first sign of a volcanic eruption. If you have time, close windows and doors to prevent debris and fumes from getting inside.
9. Put your car in the garage, where it is most likely to stay safe.
10. Remain inside your house with your windows and doors closed, if you do not have time to evacuate. Be sure to close the damper in your fireplace, to keep fumes out.
11. Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face, if the fumes do get into your house, to help with breathing.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid areas that are downwind of a volcano, as these are the most dangerous.
• Wear pants and a long-sleeve shirt to protect your arms and legs, if you go outside during a volcanic eruption.
• If you are in your car during an eruption, be sure to turn off the engine.
• Although volcano eruptions can be fascinating, they can also be deadly. Leave the area of an eruption quickly and safely.