What to Do After a Volcanic Eruption

• Help a neighbor who may require special assistance--infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities. Elderly people and people with disabilities may require additional assistance. People who care for them or who have large families may need additional assistance in emergency situations.

• If possible, stay away from volcanic ashfall areas. The fine, glassy particles of volcanic ash can increase the health risk to children and people with existing respiratory conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema. Stay indoors, wear face masks designed to protect against lung damage from small particles, use eyeglasses instead of contacts, and protective goggles to protect eyes.

• When outside, protect yourself from the fine, glassy particles of volcanic ash.

  • Cover your mouth and nose.

  • Wear goggles to protect your eyes.

  • Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.

  • Keep skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash.

• Clear roofs of ashfall. Ashfall is very heavy and can cause buildings to collapse, especially if made wet by rainfall. Exercise great caution when working on a roof.

• Avoid driving in heavy ashfall. Driving will stir up volcanic ash that can clog engines and stall vehicles. Moving parts can be damaged from abrasion, including bearings, brakes, and transmissions.

• If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid contact with any amount of ash. Stay indoors until local health officials advise it is safe to go outside. Volcanic ash can cause great damage to breathing passages and the respiratory system.