1 Be prepared
2Evacuate
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NATURAL DISASTERS
Volcanic eruption
For EARTHQUAKE see p. 238 For TSUNAMI see p. 242 Often with little or no warning, volcanoes erupt, sending molten lava and mud flowing down the sides, clouds of ash billowing into the sky, and rock fragments hurtling down to earth. You increase your chances of escaping unharmed if you leave the area as soon as you are advised to do so.
ESCAPING A VOLCANIC ERUPTION
1 Be prepared
• If you live anywhere near a volcano, whether it is dormant or
active, keep a pair of goggles and a disposable dust mask for each family member.
• Make sure that you have planned
at least two routes out of the area, and arranged a place to meet
VOLCANO family members.
! Warning signs Professional vulcanologists study grumbling volcanos for indications of activity. The following are all warning signs that a volcano is active and about to erupt:
• An increase in seismic activity, ranging from minor tremors to earthquakes.
• Rumbling noises coming from the volcano.
• A cloud of steam hanging over the top of the volcano.
• A smell of sulfur from local rivers.
• Falls of acidic rain.
• Fine dust suspended in the sky.
• Occasional bursts of hot gases or ash from the volcano top.
2Evacuate
• If a volcano erupts without advance warning, you may be advised to evacuate the area, in which case you should leave immediately. Make sure that you follow all evacuation instructions carefully.
• Put on goggles and a disposable dust mask. If you do not have a mask, then improvise by wrapping either a wet scarf or handkerchief around your face.
• To avoid skin irritation caused by ashfall, put on clothing that covers your entire body.
Goggles protect the eyes; make sure they fit snugly
Wear a mask to protect against poisonous gases and dust
• Avoid areas that are downwind of the volcano because burning hot ash and clouds of gases may be blown in your direction.
• Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas, where mudflows may occur.