Reminders on what to do before, during and after a volcanic eruption

TIPS:

* Before a Volcanic Eruption

- Stay away from low areas where landslides may occur.

- Do not cut trees surrounding the volcano for these will serve as protection from the harmful effects of lahar.

- Build temporary but strong shelter or building. Always stand by for updates on volcanic eruption from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

- Keep the first aid kit within easy reach.

- Make sure a vehicle can be used to evacuate.


* During a Volcanic Eruption

- If ash fall occurs, evacuate people with lung diseases to a safer place. Cover your nose with a wet rag.

- Stay inside the house or evacuation center. Be cautious, alert and calm if you need to go out.

- Stop driving when there is an ash fall as this may obstruct the view and cause accidents.

- If the erupting volcano is near the sea, stay away from the shore. A volcanic eruption can also cause tsunami.


* For the local government

- Strictly prohibit the people from going to areas near the volcanic eruption.

- Advise the people to stay in the evacuation center, especially those who have asthma, cough and other similar diseases.


* After a volcanic eruption

- Go back to your homes only if advised by the barangay captain, PHIVOLCS or your local disaster coordinating council.

- The abovementioned guidelines cover the time before a volcanic eruption until it ceases. These do not include preparation for long-term, harmful effects of volcanic deposits and lahar. Low areas and those near the rivers and streams may be prone to lahar.