protocol before and during a volcanic eruption in NZ - Research

 

Get ready before volcanic activity

Find out about the volcanic risk in your community. Talk to your Civil Defence Emergency Management Group to find out how they will warn you of a volcanic eruption.

Work out what supplies you might need and make a plan together.

If you are at risk from volcanic ash fall, add the following to your emergency supplies. Auckland, Bay of Plenty, Tairāwhiti, Hawke's Bay, northern Manawatū, Northland, Taranaki and Waikato are most at risk.

• Certified disposable dust masks (rated P2 or N95) and goggles
• Plastic wrap or plastic sheeting (to keep ash out of electronics)
• Cleaning supplies including an air duster, a broom, a shovel, and a vacuum cleaner with spare bags and filters
• Heavy-duty plastic bags to dispose of ash

You could be stuck in your vehicle, so remember to store emergency supplies there too.

What to do during volcanic activity

Stay informed in an emergency. Listen to the radio or follow your Civil Defence Emergency Management Group online.

Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

Follow official advice from:

• your Civil Defence Emergency Management Group
• the Department of Conservation (for Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, Ruapehu or Taranaki only)
• local authorities, and
• emergency services.

During ash fall

Put your emergency plan into action. Listen to the radio for updates. Follow instructions from emergency services and Civil Defence.

Stay indoors. Volcanic ash is a health hazard, especially if you have respiratory difficulties such as asthma or bronchitis.

Do not attempt to clear ash from your roof while ash is falling.

Keep pets indoors.

Do not drive when there is ash on the road.

Avoid unnecessary exposure to ash until it has settled. If you have to go outside, wear protective clothing:

• a properly-fitted P2 or N95-rated mask (or a cloth if you don't have a mask)
• goggles
• sturdy footwear
• gloves, and
• clothing that covers your arms and legs.

Do not wear contact lenses because trapped ash can scratch your eyes. Wear glasses instead.

If ash fall has been forecast for your region

Before ash fall starts, go home if possible, to avoid driving or walking during ash fall.

If you have a visual impairment, wear eyeglasses. Do not wear contact lenses because trapped ash can scratch your eyes.

Bring pets inside and move livestock into closed shelters. Make sure that animals have supplementary feed and access to clean drinking water.

Close all windows and doors and shut down heat pumps to limit the entry of volcanic ash. Set up a single entry point for your house. Place damp towels at the threshold to prevent ash being tracked indoors.

Cover sensitive electronics. Do not remove covers until the indoor environment is completely ash free.

Cover vehicles, machinery and spa pools to avoid ash causing damage. Ash can corrode metal surfaces and cause abrasion damage to windscreens and paintwork.

Disconnect drainpipes/downspouts from gutters to stop drains clogging. If you use a rainwater collection system for your water supply, disconnect the tank.

Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

https://getready.govt.nz/en/emergency/volcanic-activity