Potentially active volcanoes in the
United States exist mainly in Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.
When pressure builds up within a volcano's molten rock, it has the
potential to erupt, sending forth lava flows, poisonous gases and
flying rock and ash that can sometimes travel hundreds of miles
downwind.
- Follow the instructions of local emergency officials.
- Knowing your community's warning systems and disaster plans,
including evacuation routes.
- Plan
to evacuate quickly and to take your portable
emergency supply kit with you.
- Plan ahead by adding extra goggles and something to cover
your nose and mouth to your emergency supply kit. Include
something to cover your nose and mouth for every member of your
family.
- If you are unable to evacuate, and in order to protect yourself
from falling ash, you should remain indoors with doors, windows
and ventilation closed until the ash settles.
Stay informed
Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information
on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should
listen to NOAA Weather Radio,
watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official
news and instructions as they become available.
For additional information on dealing with volcanic eruptions,
please see The Red Cross' Public
Information about Volcanoes and/or FEMA's
Volcano webpage.
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