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Volcanic Ash Preparedness

​​There are more than 50 active volcanoes in Alaska​​

The Alaska Peninsula, Kodiak Island, Kenai Peninsula, and Cook Inlet are the most likely areas in the state to experience ash fall from a volcanic eruption.  Ash may be carried some distance from an explosive eruption. 

Effects of Volcanic Ash:

  • Ash particles are very sharp.
  • Ashfall causes air quality issues and can damage the lungs of small infants, or those already suffering from respiratory illnesses. 
  • An ash cloud may reduce sunlight. Remain calm if the sky is darkened during an ashfall event​.
  • Heavy ashfall can clog watercourses, sewage plants, and various machinery. 
  • Heavy ashfall can cause structural damage to buildings, but most Alaska volcanos do not cause have heavy ashfall. 
  • Ash is extremely slippery, hampering both driving and walking.
Preparing for Volcanic Ash:
  • Learn about volcanic ash. 
  • ​Make an emergency plan
  • Make an Emergency Kit, include items specific to volcanic ashfall such as:
    • goggles
    • N95 dust mask 
    • gloves
During Volcanic A​sh event:
  • If possible, stay indoors until local health officials advise it is safe to go outside.
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
  • Use goggles to protect your eyes. 
  • Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
  • Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to assist in breathing.
  • If possible, do not drive, ash is very hard on vehicles.
  • Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
  • Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Brush or vacuum them when coming back inside.
  • Listen to local officials for important information. 
After a Volcanic Ash event:
  • Check on neighbors. 
  • When outside, protect yourself from the fine, glassy particles of volcanic ash.
    • Cover your mouth and nose.
    • Wear goggles to protect your eyes.
    • Wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
    • Keep skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash
  • It is likely unesscessary to sweep ash off of roofs. Always exercise caution when working on a roof.

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