Mount Spurr Volcanic Activity Increases: How to Protect Yourself in the Event of an Eruption
At Alaska Family Dermatology, your health and safety are our top priorities. With recent reports indicating increased activity at Mount Spurr, it’s important to understand the situation and how to protect yourself, especially concerning your skin and overall health.
Understanding Mount Spurr’s Recent Activity
Mount Spurr, located approximately 80 miles northwest of Anchorage, Alaska, is experiencing heightened volcanic activity. The Alaska Volcano Observatory has detected significantly elevated volcanic gas emissions and reactivated gas vents, suggesting magma intrusion beneath the summit. These observations indicate that an eruption is likely within the next few weeks or months.
General Precautions During a Volcanic Eruption
In the event of an eruption, it’s crucial to take the following steps to ensure your safety:
-
Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates from local authorities and the Alaska Volcano Observatory for the latest information on volcanic activity and safety recommendations.
-
Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit containing essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, a flashlight, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Find more information at International Volcanic Health Hazard Network (IVHHN)
-
Limit Outdoor Exposure: Volcanic ash can pose respiratory hazards. Stay indoors as much as possible during ashfall events to minimize exposure.
-
Protect Indoor Air Quality: Keep windows and doors closed. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce indoor ash particles.
Skin and Hair Protection During Ashfall
Volcanic ash can have abrasive and irritating effects on the skin and hair. To protect yourself:
-
Cover Up: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats to minimize skin exposure to ash.
-
Use Protective Barriers: Apply a thick moisturizer or petroleum jelly to exposed skin areas to create a protective barrier against ash particles.
-
Eye Protection: Wear goggles to prevent ash from irritating your eyes.
-
Hair Care: Cover your hair with a hat or scarf to prevent ash accumulation. After exposure, rinse your hair thoroughly with water before shampooing to avoid scratching the scalp with ash particles.
-
Skin Cleansing: Gently wash exposed skin with water and a mild cleanser to remove ash. Avoid scrubbing, which can cause irritation.
At Alaska Family Dermatology, we are committed to your well-being. By staying informed and taking appropriate precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during this period of increased volcanic activity. We hope everyone remains safe and healthy.!
For more detailed information on preparedness and safety, please refer to resources provided by the International Volcanic Health Hazard Network.
