Health Precautions During Volcano Ash Fall-Out Part V

Children are particularly vulnerable after an eruption, from fine ash particles. When ash is still distributing through the air children should be kept either indoors or discouraged from energetic activities outside, as they breathe in the ash particles into the lungs more easily with the deep breaths they take. Masks should be worn outside and children should be kept from the hills of ash being readied for removal.

For people with respiratory ailments, exposure to ash particles can exacerbate the problem resulting in acute bronchitis, difficulty breathing and wheezing. The nose can have a continuous drip. Lung disease can be a severe result of exposure to volcanic ash if exposed to a high level of it over several years. People who have not experienced asthmatic concerns can develop short-term problems with tightness in the chest, and difficulty breathing freely. Some factors can contribute to the severity of the symptoms, such as volcanic gases and aerosols. The amounts of these compositions can increase symptoms of respiratory issues. Dust masks should be worn, but if you have been caught without the masks, a dampened piece of fabric will help protect from larger particles in the air.

Vision can be affected easily due to the abrasion from the volcanic grit in the ash. The same grit that scratches your windshield can scratch the cornea. This is a good time to use those eye glasses and keep the contact lenses safely stored away until the air is much more clear. Everyone regardless of whether they wear glasses or not, should have goggles for their protection. Eyes are not something you want to mess around with.

Water consumption – if you can filter the water prior to drinking, do so. Water can become unsafe to drink and stocking up on water prior to the eruption is your safest decision in keeping drinking water available for the people in your home.

Just remember, a few simple precautions can make a world of difference in your ability to stay healthy.