After researching volcanoes in general, and the Mt. St. Helens volcano in Washington state USA we developed a brochure to help people near volcanoes survive this natural disaster.
Before a Volcano
* Learn about your community warning systems and emergency plans, and be ready to evacuate at a moment's notice.
* Have an emergency disaster plan for you and your family. We recommend that you make sure there is enough gas in your vehicle at all times for an early escape.
*Have a disaster supply kit. We recommend that supplies be stored in a fire retardant high impact- resistant backpack.
*Flashlight and extra batteries
*First aid kit and manual
*Emergency food in “pop top” cans and water
*Essential medicines
*Small battery powered radio
A personal-size mini GPS system with earphone speaker - This system would be programmed to pick up your current location and lead you by voice (Falling ash would make it hard to see a screen) to a designated safe location.
* As one of our innovations we are recommending a “volcano-protective outfit,” which includes a fire resistant polyester and 35mm PVC hooded jacket” a “hard hat type helmet with goggles and dust mask attached, flame resistant jeans made of 100% cotton denim, gloves featuring a fire and cut-resistant Kevlar, and good pair heavy-duty hiking boots for each member of the household.
* For your pets a fire retardant, high impact resistant backpack (similar to the supplies backpack) for pets of 20lbs total or less. For larger dogs a “doggie protective suit” with loosely fitted leg covers with footies, and a hooded clear visor. The inside of the visor and the back of the suit would have lightweight high impact plastic.
During a Volcano
* Listen to a battery-operated radio for the latest emergency information.
* Follow the evacuation order issued by authorities.
* Wear protective clothing, such as:
A “volcano protective outfit,” which includes a fire resistant polyester & 35mm PVC hooded jacket, a “hard hat-type” helmet with goggles and dust mask attached, flame resistant jeans made of 100% cotton denim, gloves featuring a fire and cut-resistant Kevlar, and good pair of heavy-duty hiking boots.. This will protect you and your family from an Ash Fall, Acid Rain, cinders, and small debris being spurned into the air.
* If you can drive rather than walk, use your vehicle to evacuate.
* If a lahar, pyroclastic flow, or lava flow is headed toward you, leave the area immediately.
* If you have time:
* Close all windows, doors, and dampers.
* Put all machinery inside a garage or barn.
* Bring livestock into closed shelters.
* Small pets should be placed in the “volcano protective pet carrier backpack” or a regular carrier covered with a wet towel during evacuation.
* If trapped outdoors: Seek shelter indoors.
* If caught in a rock fall; roll into a ball to protect your head; this is where a “protective helmet” would help.
* During an ashfall it is recommended that one should:
* Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
* Use goggles to protect your eyes.
* Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help breathing.
This is where a “volcano-protective outfit” with goggles and a dust mask will help protect a person.
* Immediately After a Volcanic Eruption:
You should stay away from volcanic ashfall areas. Stay indoors until local health officials advise it is safe to go outside.
* Photos: USGS
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