Living within a 10-kilometer radius of an active volcano poses significant risks, particularly when an eruption is imminent. For those residing near Canlaon Volcano, the threat of a full-blown eruption is a serious concern. Preparing for such an event is crucial to ensure the safety of your family, livestock, and property. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you prepare effectively.
1. Stay Informed and Ready to Evacuate
- Monitor Updates: Stay updated on the volcano’s activity through local authorities, disaster management offices, and geological organizations. Radio, TV, or official mobile alerts are excellent resources.
- Emergency Contacts: Maintain a list of emergency numbers, including local disaster response teams, veterinary services, and nearby evacuation shelters.
- Evacuation Plan: Know your evacuation routes and the locations of nearby shelters. Share this plan with family members to ensure everyone is informed and ready.
2. Prepare an Emergency Kit
For Humans:
- Water: At least 3 liters per person per day for three days.
- Non-perishable food: Easy-to-carry items like canned goods and protein bars.
- Protective gear: Dust masks or N95 respirators to protect against ash inhalation, goggles, sturdy footwear, and gloves.
- First-aid kit: Include essential medications.
- Important documents: Store IDs, insurance papers, and livestock records in waterproof containers.
- Flashlights, extra batteries, and power banks.
For Livestock:
- Water containers: Ensure you have enough portable water storage.
- Animal feed: Stockpile non-perishable feed or hay in sealed containers.
- Animal first-aid kit.
- Identification tags: Use ear tags or collars for quick identification.
3. Secure Your Livestock
Evacuation Readiness:
- Identify safe zones: Arrange temporary relocation areas for livestock, such as nearby farms or designated animal shelters.
- Transport preparation: Arrange trailers or trucks to move animals quickly and safely.
On-Site Protection:
- Shelter animals: If evacuation is not immediately possible, house livestock in a well-ventilated area protected from ashfall. Avoid metal roofs that may collapse under the weight of ash.
- Protect feed and water: Use covers or tarps to shield food and water supplies from ash contamination.
4. Protect Your Home and Farm
- Seal Openings: Use plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal windows and doors to prevent ash from entering.
- Clear Drainage: Ensure that gutters and drainage systems are debris-free to prevent ashfall clogging.
- Reinforce Structures: Strengthen roofs and other structures to handle the weight of accumulated ash.
- Store Equipment: Protect vehicles and farm equipment by storing them indoors or covering them securely.
5. Post-Eruption Safety
- Wait for Clearance: Do not return home until authorities declare the area safe.
- Inspect Resources: Check and clean water sources and feed supplies to ensure they are free from ash contamination before use.
- Animal Care: Observe livestock for signs of stress or illness caused by ash exposure. Seek veterinary assistance if needed.
- Clean-Up: Use appropriate protective gear when cleaning ash from your property to avoid respiratory and skin irritation.
6. Collaborate with Your Community
- Work with neighbors: Coordinate shared transportation and resources for livestock and evacuation.
- Join drills: Participate in local authorities’ disaster preparedness drills and information sessions.
Final Thoughts
Preparation is the key to mitigating the risks of living near a volcano. By staying informed, preparing emergency kits, safeguarding your livestock, and collaborating with your community, you can increase your resilience and readiness for a potential eruption. Always prioritize safety and follow the guidance of disaster management officials.
