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Precautions for Living Near a Volcano

Living near a volcano, even one that has been dormant for years, requires a special type of preparedness for area residents. Understanding how to react before, during and after a volcano erupts will ensure that you and your family stay safe. Precautions can protect your physical belongings as well. Stay alert to volcano changes so that you can implement your disaster plan right away.

  1. Have Safety Items on Hand

    • Having a volcano preparedness kit is an effective way to prepare for the volcano long before it erupts. Have a weather radio on hand so that you can follow local news about the volcano and hear any information about evacuations from local authorities. Stock your kit with batteries and a flashlight in case you lose power during the eruption. Nonperishable food and bottled water are essentials that will get you through a volcano-related power outage as well.

    Monitor Respiratory Health

    • The ash expelled during a volcanic eruption can have serious repercussions to your health. A November 2008 study by Bernadette Longo and Wei Lang at the University of Nevada, Reno, published in the "Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health," revealed that people living near volcanoes are at higher risk of developing acute bronchitis. At a minimum, wear a mask to limit your exposure to ash. Place an air purifying respirator in your home to improve the quality of the air you breathe.

    Keep Your House Safe

    • One key to staying safe during a volcano is by keeping your house free of ash and lava. Keep your windows closed, and close your fireplace damper. Turn off your air conditioning and heating to prevent ash from coming into your home. Stay in an interior room above ground level without windows to limit your exposure. If you notice ash seeping into your home or accumulating on your roof, remove it as quickly as possible.

    Outdoor Safety

    • It is best to stay indoors during and immediately after a volcanic eruption. However, if you have to venture outdoors, you must take precautions. Wear goggles to prevent ash from getting in your eyes. Avoid driving if at all possible, as car travel can spread ash and clog your engine and inhibit your car's performance. If you find yourself coming near a lava flow, move away from it to avoid burns.

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