When Volcanoes Go Boom

Forty years ago today, Mount Saint Helens in Washington State erupted. For about two months the mountain had been experiencing explosions, earthquakes, venting, and flows. The official death toll from the explosion is 57. The ash covered an area of more than 22,000 miles. When volcanoes go boom, it can be catastrophic.

Like with Mount Saint Helens, a full eruption will usually be preceded by a period of earthquakes and minor releases of steam, lava, mud, or gasses. These don’t guarantee a major eruption, but are an indicator one is possible in the near future. If you aren’t prepared for an eruption before these signs, you should prepare as soon as possible once they begin.

Preparing For When Volcanoes Go Boom

To prepare for a possible eruption, you should ensure you have emergency food and water supplies to last at least two weeks. If you don’t already have an emergency supply of water you can fill a bathtub with water. Other supplies important to have in case they are needed are flashlights, first aid kits, and an emergency radio.

Your family should know where to meet if an eruption occurs. Your family emergency plan should also have a backup location in case you can’t get to the primary place, or it is unsafe.

If you are in an area that might be affected by the ash plume when a volcano begins to erupt, you should put on a dust mask or make a mask out of a bandana or cloth to protect your breathing and airway. It can also be helpful to wrap gauze around the air filter on your car. Gauze will help protect your car so it can keep running.

What To Do When A Volcano Goes Boom

While ash is falling and immediately after, take the following precautions. Only go outdoors or drive if there is an immediate health or safety need. If people are coming inside, you should make sure ash is cleaned off them before they come in. Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible. Listen to local television and radio stations for real time emergency information.

Most of the United States, and most of the world, don’t need to worry about volcanoes. Certain areas like the Ring of Fire and areas around tectonic plate boundaries do need to prepare. If you are in an area at risk for a volcanic eruption, it is important to prepare for it happening. As with most emergencies, we can’t predict when they will occur. It might not happen in your lifetime. It’s important to prepare though in case it does happen. When volcanoes go boom, the result can be catastrophic.

If you would like more information about eruptions, or help with preparing your home or business for a disaster such as a volcanic eruption, the Life, Liberty, And Pursuit of Happiness Project is here to help! Please send questions to contact@llphp.org.

Garrett Leeds is the founder of the Life, Liberty, and Pursuit of Happiness Project

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