Volcanoes can pose a threat to life and property.
The volcano is one of Earth's most awesome spectacles. Magma emerges through vents in the planet's crust, spewing smoke, ash and glowing red molten rock into the air. From a distance, this natural process is amazing to watch. However, if you happen to live in the vicinity of an active volcano, an eruption is much more serious than it is beautiful. Citizens in the potential path of a volcano's destruction must have emergency procedures in place to keep them safe.
Map Hazard Zones
Vulcanologists and geologists who study volcanic activity must determine the risk of different areas surrounding an active volcano prior to eruption, according to DisastersRUs.org. The site at which the debris is released from the vent or crater, combined with the slope of the land will determine which direction lava will flow. Based on a numerical scale, these scientists will determine which areas are at risk for probable destruction versus the areas that have little or no risk at all. Maps are drawn and are available to the public in some areas such as Hawaii.
Evacuation Routes
Refuge zones are an important part of volcano emergency preparation procedures. Evacuation routes are planned in accordance with the hazard zone maps to help ensure that those within the active lava flow zone or the blast area are a safe distance from the volcano.
Transit Points And Traffic Control
In a situation where people live within the potential disaster zone, it is essential for everyone to know where to go and what to do in the event of a volcanic eruption, according to DisastersRUs.org. An organized plan will prevent chaos and help people proceed to safety in an orderly manner.
On the way out of the disaster zone there should be transit points at which those registered within the disaster area can check in and be accounted for. This will help identify who is missing in the event that search and rescue is necessary.
Alert System
If an eruption is imminent, there must an alert system to inform those in the disaster-prone area that they need to proceed to shelter by following the established evacuation plan. People should evacuate at once and travel to the designated refuge zones without taking time to gather excessive personal belongings. With a natural force as unpredictable as a volcano, hesitation could mean ending up in a life-threatening situation.
Ash Fall Procedures
Those outside of the direct lava flow or blast debris area may still experience ash fall from the volcano, according to the University of Washington Department of Political Science. In the event of an eruption, people in potential ash fall areas should close windows, shut down lighting and electrical equipment, turn off natural gas and close all ventilation systems, exhaust fans or hoods as well as turn off any heating or air units to prevent clogging. People should also wear protective masks to keep from inhaling potentially dangerous particles.
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