28/09/2017
Why should you prepare for a volcanic eruption?
Ash is dangerous for health.
Ash impacts economic activity. Staff at stores are not going to work during an ash cloud.
Shops are going to be closed. People are not prepared and hungry people do crazy things.
This could be more dangerous than ash.
There are like basic things to prepare for.
1) Food & water
Have a food/water supply for 1 month at home. Best way is to have a balance of canned and fresh foods. Don't forget to add some of your comfortfoods. Canned food can get boring after a few weeks.
2) Evacuation vehicles
Always keep your petrol tank of your cars or motorbikes completely full
In case of an evacuation you should be able to get away from immediate danger. Ideally one should stock up fuel in jerrycans.
3) Evacuation plan
Have an evacuation plan for your direct relatives and friends. Mark evacuation centers on a paper map.
If you are at your work during an eruption, cellphone coverage is down and your vehicle broke down? You should gather and wait at specific predetermined evavuation locations. This way your loved ones should have an easier time in finding you.
4) Electricity
The powergrid will malfunction due to vulcanic ash.
Prepare some means of alternative power like wind/solar power or a generator.
Aquire plenty of flashlights, batteries or good old candles.
5) Respirators/masks
An ashcloud will make breathing difficult.
Invest in good masks with exchangeable filters or at least the N95 masks.
6)Communication plan.
This is in case of a power outage.
Tell your loved ones that you always text at 12PM (or any other time) for 5minutes.
You give your closest friends and relatives a basic status update on health, location and maybe things you need.
This way you use only a small percentage of battery power per day.
Have a small fm/am radio at hand to listen for radiostations and information on the major issues that are unfolding
7) Pray for the best and prepare for the worst.
Stay safe and be prepared
Disclaimer :
This is a very basic preparation list. The internet is a great source of information should you need more in depth tips.
Look for "urban preparing" "urban prepping" "prepping"
