Exposure to ash can cause health problems, especially respiratory damage such as irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat areas. Along with ash, a volcanic eruption can bring about acid rain, spews of rock, lava, and dangerous gases. Water supplies can become contaminated. Reduced visibility will occur due to harmful gases and smog, especially in low-lying regions.

The American Red Cross has identified 4 common misconceptions about volcanoes:

1. Fiction: Volcanoes erupt regularly. 

      Fact: While volcanoes experience periods of closely spaced eruptions followed by longer periods of quiet, most volcanoes display no regularity in eruptions.,

2.   Fiction: Volcanoes are unpredictable and erupt without warning

      Fact: Volcanoes exude warning signs of eruption weeks to months in advance

3.   Fiction: Lava flows are one of the most damaging hazards from volcanoes.

      Fact: This is true for Hawaii, however volcanic ash and mudflows are more prominent hazards outside Hawaii.

4.   Fiction: Volcanic eruptions can be caused by earthquakes.

      Fact: An earthquake signals a geologically active landscape but it does not cause a volcanic eruption.

Every member of your family needs to know what your homeowner evacuation plan is. Where will you go? How will you get there? What optional evacuation routes will you have if your initial choice is blocked? Where will you stay? Knowing these basics in advance can help stem panic during an actual natural disaster situation. Have a to-go bag in place with all the supplies you’ll need, including items for your pets. If you’ll need assistance in traveling, you’ll need to confirm with someone in advance. And be sure to follow any evacuation orders that have been issued. As a family, discuss how you can help your neighbors during a natural disaster by checking in or helping them evacuate as well. Let your family and friends know you’re safe by using the American Red Cross Emergency! app/website.

A volcanic eruption will bring about an onslaught of ash and dangerous gases, so be sure to have a supply of N-95 respirators and goggles on hand for every member of your family.

The American Red Cross recommends gathering 2 emergency supply kits:

1. A Go-Kit: with a 3-day supply of items you can carry with you, including chargers for your devices (cell phone, wheelchair, CPAP, etc.) and backup batteries; as well as non-perishable food, water, and medications. Cash is also important to have on hand as ATMs may not be working/accessible. 
2. A Stay-at-Home Kit: with a 2-week supply of the above items.

NOAA recommends adding the following to round out your emergency disaster supply kits, where applicable:

• masks, disinfecting wipes, and hand sanitizer
• non-prescription medicine such as antacids, anti-diarrhea, and pain relievers
• contact lens solution/prescription eyeglasses
• baby bottles, formula, wipes, diapers, and diaper rash cream
• feminine hygiene supplies
• sleeping bags/blankets
• a change of clothing for each family member, including sensible footwear
• fire extinguisher
• matches in a fireproof container
• mess kit with plates, utensils, cups, and paper towels
• activities for kids like puzzles, games, or books

It’s estimated that 40% of Americans can’t find an important household document when needed, so the first step is to upload your vital household documents to our user-friendly digital platform, so there’s easy access 24/7/365. Secondly, reassess your homeowner policy to ensure you have the best coverage to fit your needs. Compare the cost and coverage that you have in place, to what else is available from your current insurer and other companies. If there have been any major additions to your home and/or contents in the last year, it’s time to review your homeowner insurance policy to ensure it’ll cover your new additions. It’s good to know that according to the Insurance Information Institute, homeowner insurance policies will cover property loss/damage caused by a volcanic eruption including fire, lava flows, ash, a volcanic blast, and/or airborne shockwaves.

Depending on where you live across America, insurance companies may reward your efforts in making your home disaster-resistant by offering discounted homeowner insurance premiums. Think storm shutters, reinforced roofing with hurricane clips/materials, and sump pumps. Upgraded plumbing systems can lessen the risk of water damage.

Such supplies can include plastic sheeting, tarps, sandbags, and/or plywood, plus the necessary tools to apply these to your home like a staple gun and/or duct tape

Now that you’ve got everything in place, there’s no better way to solidify it than by making a written plan, which should include regularly practicing your escape route, and maintaining your disaster prep plan supplies by replacing expired items. Ensure your plan includes a contact list, with at least one contact who lives outside the impacted area; share your disaster plan with family and friends.