Mitigation measures for volcanic eruptions usually involve implementation of control structures to reduce the effects of flooding; land zoning and evacuation; and building reinforcement.

Mitigation

There are four main ways in which we can attempt to mitigate volcanic hazards:

During a volcanic eruption

• Listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio or TV for updated information.
• Be prepared to evacuate, and do so immediately if necessary
• Avoid areas downwind and river valleys downstream from the volcano.
• Close all windows and doors, and bring any pets or livestock into closed shelters.
• If you are outdoors:
  • Seek shelter indoors immediately.
  • Avoid low-lying areas and streams.
  • If caught in a rock fall, roll into a ball to protect your head.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants and if necessary, along with goggles and a mask.

After a volcanic eruption

• Remain inside your home until officials declare it is safe to leave.
• Inspect your home:
  • Check for damage to walls, the roof, the foundation, the electrical system and water lines.
  • Notify your insurance company if your home is damaged.
• When outside, avoid volcanic ash fall. Cover your skin, nose, eyes and mouth.
• Clear roofs of ash fall. Ash can be very heavy and cause roofs to collapse.
• Avoid making phone calls except in serious emergencies.

• One of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of a volcanic eruption is having an evacuation plan. This involves ensuring evacuation strategies are in place along with emergency shelter and food supplies being planned for.
• Based on monitoring data, exclusion zones can be set up to ensure people are evacuated from areas likely to be affected before an eruption.
• Local people can also be educated about actions they can take to reduce the risk of loss of life or injury.
• People are taught that if they are unable to be evacuated what they should do to protect themselves, e.g. go indoors to avoid falling ash and rock.

Mitigation of Volcanic Disasters, Mitigation of Volcanic Disasters

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