What to do before, during and after ashfall

With Mount Mayon continuously spewing lava and ash in the last few days, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has released some guidelines on what to do before, during and after the ash fall brought by volcanic eruptions.

Mayon Volcano is currently under Alert Level 4, which means a hazardous eruption is possible within days.

On Wednesday afternoon, Mayon Volcano spewed more lava and ash, which generated an ash plume three kilometers high. The first lava fountain episode occurred between 2:33 a.m. to 3:57 a.m. and came along with a five-kilometer ash plume.

To ensure safety during volcanic eruptions, here are the measures you need to follow:

Before

• Listen to the radio for updates from authority when there is an impending eruption that may cause ash fall.
• Prepare emergency supply kit and place in an accessible area.
• Prepare dust masks or clean cloth for covering the nose and goggles for eye protection.
• Prepare cleaning supplies such as broom, vacuum cleaner with spare bags and filters and a shovel.
• Consider that you could be stuck in your vehicle, store emergency supplies in your vehicle.
• Have food and water provision for pets, poultry and live stocks.
• Know the location of evacuation area.
• If you have children, know the school's emergency plan.
• Have indoor games and activities ready for children.

During

• Listen to the radio for updates/developments regarding the volcanic eruption.
• Keep your pet/s in their shelter or inside the house to avoid inhaling ash.
• If you are driving a vehicle, pull to the side of the road and stop if there is heavy ash fall which causes poor/low visibility.
• If outside, look for a shelter and wear glasses to protect your eyes. Avoid using contact lenses.
• Stay clam. Stay indoors. Cover your nose and mouth with damp, clean cloth or dust mask.
• Close all windows and doors of your house and your car.
• Place damp towels or cloth at door openings and other open sources.
• Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
• Cover water containers and food to avoid contamination from ash.

After

• As soon as the ash fall diminishes, scrape off the ash that has accumulated on the rooftops to prevent collapse.
• After removing ash, clean the roof and gutter with water to prevent corrosion.
• Remove ash from windows and doors of the house and car. Use water before washing them with soap and lukewarm water.
• Collect the ashes and put them in an area far from water drainage  to avoid clogging.
• Wash grass before feeding the animals or live stocks.
• Boil water before drinking.
• Use powder detergent in washing clothes covered in ash.
• Use a vacuum cleaner or shake the furniture to loosen and clean the ash. Cover your nose and mouth while cleaning.

— BAP, GMA News