How to prepare for a volcanic eruption in the Philippines

The Philippines is not just home to beautiful beaches but is also known for various volcanoes from the northern part of the country to the south. This is because we are part of the Ring of Fire where a large number of volcano and earthquake activities occur including Japan, Indonesia, and the western coast of the United States.

In the Philippines alone, there are 24 active and 27 potentially-active volcanoes. On average, around 100 to 150 earthquakes occur in a year. This kind of disaster alongside volcanic eruption cannot be predicted unlike the typhoons. As a response, how should we prepare for a volcanic eruption?

1. Know your risk for volcanic eruption

It is important for you to know the risk of your residence and work area for volcanic eruption. The nearer you are to an active volcano the more you should be prepared for this unpredictable disaster. Those who are far away are not exempted because some volcanic eruption can affect far places just like what happened in Mt. Pinatubo erupted in 1991 when its ash fall reached other parts of the Philippines aside from Zambales.

2. Be updated on the latest volcanic eruption advisories

If you can follow your favorite social media personalities, it will not be too much of your time to also follow the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) online pages. PHIVOLCS posts real-time updates on earthquakes and volcanic activities detected in the Philippines. Also make it a habit to be informed through various trusted media organizations available on television, radio, and online.

3. Make an evacuation plan before a volcanic eruption

Usually, community evacuation areas depend on your location so make sure that you follow the latest announcements of your local government unit (LGU). Local officials will advise where you will go and what route to take to the evacuation area. Aside from being connected to your own community, your household’s own preparation is also vital for this. Make your own evacuation plan as a household especially if all of you are usually outside your house during weekdays because of work or school. In order to ensure an effective plan, assign responsibilities for each member of the household, decide where each member will meet if everyone is not at home during the time of the volcanic eruption, and determine how each one of you will communicate with each other. Most importantly, practice it regularly or every six months.

4. Gather emergency supplies before a volcanic eruption

When a disaster strikes, sometimes panic is inevitable. Having a Go-Kit and Stay-at-Home Kit Is very beneficial in times of volcanic eruption and other disasters. Your Go-kit may include a 3-day supply of food, water, medicines, and first-aid kit you can carry, a backup battery, chargers for your devices, and important documents. Meanwhile, for Stay-at-Home-Kit, it is recommended to have at least 2 week- supply of food and water and a 1-month medicine supply.

5. Protect your health after a volcanic eruption

After the volcanic eruption, wait for the official announcement of the government authority before you go back to your residence. If you stayed at home, also wait for the advice if it is safe to go outside. This is also the same with water supply in your area, it is advisable to check with your service provider if the water is safe for consumption. Before you clean up the ash falls in your properties, make sure you wear protective gear such as an N95 mask, gloves, long-sleeve shirts, long pants, shoes, socks, and goggles. Mental health is also important and in times of disaster, it is normal to feel bad and experience anxiety. Consume healthy food, enough water, and enough sleep to counter the stress.