Volcanic eruptions are a geophysical hazard that occurs when lava and gases emanating from volcanic vent usually in the mountains. There are different types of volcanoes, the most dangerous type being the glowing avalanche whereby freshly forming magma erupts at extreme temperatures of up to 1200 degrees Celsius. The worst eruptions in history have been responsible for the massive displacement of human populations and mortalities. As an emergency situation that comes unexpectedly, the best weapon to counter its effect involve sufficient preparation. Volcano preparedness guide will help you cushion yourself and the loved ones from the traumatizing experience associated with volcanoes.

An active volcano is that which has erupted once or more over the past 10,000 years, and such volcanoes are likely to erupt again in the future. There exist over 150 active volcanoes in the United States alone depicting the weighty nature of this issues, and thus plans towards mitigation and recovery are essential. Volcanoes are not much of a calamity since there are often indications of the possibility of an eruption occurring. However, the timespan is such short that adequate preparation upon notification by the scientist is an illusion.

How do we prepare for a volcanic eruption?                          

It is worthy to appreciate that a volcanic eruption is often unstoppable and can occur anywhere and at any time. You have minimal control over the course of a volcano; however, you can protect yourself and your family from this remarkable and destructive event by mounting an efficient preparation plan. Enlisted are tips on how to prepare for a volcanic eruption.

 

  • Gather the vital volcano information from the authorities in charge

 

Relevant information concerning the occurrence of volcanoes is crucial as it will influence your preparation plan. Volcanoes do not occur in isolation and before they occur geologist can always get predictive data to determine the specifics about that particular volcano. From such data, the local authority formulates a guideline on how to act before and after volcanic eruptions. In some cases, you may be required to evacuate the location. Keep listening to updates about the expected volcano and pass this message to your family as this will reduce anxiety and fear during an eruption.

Furthermore, reliable information from a certified geologist will help you in drafting a volcano disaster management plan. Also useful to governments informing disaster management team and availing the necessary resources.

 

  • Have a volcano emergency plan

 

Volcanoes are usually destructive and disruptive leading to displacements. It is probable that you will lose contact with your family when a volcanic eruption occurs; therefore, it is vital that you discuss with your family an emergency plan and possibly set an emergency contact as well as meeting point after the volcano. Elaborate evacuation plan for volcanic eruption will help avoid injuries and deaths that are a common outcome of such calamities. The planning should include a volcano shelter where you will start life after volcano since there is a significant likelihood that your home may be damaged. It is vital that you update your associate on the emergency plan periodically to enhance preparedness levels.

 

 

During a volcano, access to essential utilities will be limited, and there is altered supply to such critical commodities for example; water, food, medicines, first-aid supplies, sanitation utilities, and communication aids. These should be in adequate quantities to last for at least 72 hours. Nevertheless, a volcano survival kit should be portable enough because you will have to carry it with you during the disaster and bulky containers may drag you and limit your escape chances.

It is important that you listen to counsel from the emergency officials since this guide your volcano preparation.

Safety tips before a volcanic eruption

How well you approach a volcano will determine the outcome. Safety plan before a volcano is an essential determinant on the preparedness levels for a volcano disaster. Every citizen in areas that are likely to experience volcanic eruptions should be trained on the following safety tips.

  • Create awareness on the dangers of volcanic eruptions and speculated harms as well as ways on how to minimize or counter such risks.
  • Prepare all the necessary utilities that you will need during volcanic eruptions and make them easily accessible during the evacuation. These supplies should be strategically located to facilitate a smooth and seamless evacuation procedure.
  • Upon receiving information on the potential of a volcano occurring, you should assemble your protective gear which includes but not limited to facemask, overalls, nose covers and boots.
  • Safety of the children should be prioritized above everything else. During eruptions, you should ensure that the kids are well covered and away from the impacts of the volcano.

What to do during a volcanic eruption

Volcanic eruptions are a frightening occurrence, and many people have succumbed to death due to inappropriate adrenaline induced responses. What to do during a volcanic eruption will depend on where the volcano finds you. If found indoors, you may be required to evacuate, or the emergency officials may advise that you remain indoors to protect you from the falling ashes. During a volcanic eruption, it is advisable that you help the incapacitated people, for example, the infants and the elderly to either evacuate on shelter well. Listening to directives from the emergency team, composure, and prompt action is vital for appropriate response during a volcano disaster.

Observing precautions during a volcanic eruption is paramount for survival. Some of the necessary precautions include putting on protective gear and avoiding low-lying places because lava will flow in downstream among others.

After the eruptions

Dangers of volcanic eruptions lurks even after the explosion, in spite of lack of lava flowing, the environmental changes after a volcano may not be conducive for human habitation and it is advisable that you wait for a final assessment report before getting back to your original habitat. Volcano eruptions may result to floods, power outage, and disruption of transport, rectification of these should be included in the government recovery plan following a volcanic eruption.

Volcano preparedness guide and readiness plan will save lives and cushion the impacts of a volcanic eruption.