As Mount Spurr shows signs of potential activity, many Alaskans are wondering how to prepare for possible volcanic ashfall while maintaining their daily routines. Understanding how to protect ourselves and our homes during these events is crucial for everyone in our region. Being prepared for volcanic ash will help keep you safe and comfortable if an eruption occurs.
Volcanic ash isn't like regular fireplace ash—it's made of tiny, sharp pieces of rock and glass that can hurt your eyes and lungs. There are simple ways to protect yourself and your home if ash falls from the sky, though. This column is not about a prediction of Mt. Spurr or any other local volcano, but is about preparational steps we can all take.
Before an eruption occurs, protecting your home is important. Sealing your house is the first priority. Use weather stripping or duct tape around windows and doors to close any air gaps, to prevent ash from seeping in through small gaps. This will help with your heating bill, anyway.
Consider installing high-efficiency air filters in your heating and cooling systems, and have extra filters on hand. Store several gallons of water, as water supplies might become contaminated during an ashfall event.
When ash is falling, try to stay indoors. If you must go outside, wear an N95 mask, protective eyewear, and clothes that cover your skin. Keep your windows and doors closed to keep the ash out of your house and avoid running air conditioning units unless they have proper filtration systems.
Many people wonder about going to work during ashfall. If you need to drive during an ash fall, be extra careful. Drive slowly and leave more space between cars because ash makes roads slippery. Use your headlights even during the day. When cleaning ash off your car's windshield, always wet it first with washer fluid before using your wipers to avoid scratches.
Since volcanic regions often experience earthquakes, it's important to know how to stay safe during seismic activity as well. During an earthquake, remember to "Drop, Cover and Hold On." If you're in bed, stay there and protect your head with a pillow. Contrary to popular belief, standing in a doorway is no longer considered safe practice, as modern doorways are no stronger than other parts of a building.
After the ash stops falling, don't rush to clean up. Wait until everything settles, then wear your mask and eye protection while cleaning. Wet the ash with water before sweeping to keep it from floating in the air. Don't use leaf blowers, as they will spread the ash around.
Don't worry too much about ash on your roof —most roofs can handle several inches of it. But if you hear creaking sounds, it might be signs of structural strain. In that case, it's safer to leave and find a stronger building. Never try to clean ash off your roof yourself, as it's very slippery and dangerous.
Remember that volcanic events can last for days or even weeks, so it's important to keep enough supplies at home to last a week: food and fresh water (for both people and pets), masks, and cleaning materials. Stay tuned to local news and follow directions from emergency officials.
By understanding these safety measures and being prepared, we can better protect ourselves and our community during volcanic events while maintaining our daily activities as safely as possible. Even if Spurr doesn't erupt, being ready doesn't hurt anybody.
Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaska resident with over 25 years of public safety and public service experience. He is the City of Houston Fire Chief and serves on many local and state workgroups, boards and commissions related to safety. He lives in Big Lake with his wife of 20 years and their three teenage sons.
