Volcanic Eruptions

Volcanoes can spew ash, a type of particulate matter air pollution, into the air for miles downwind of the eruption. They also produce and release gases mixed with water and tiny particles that form a type of pollution called vog. Volcanic eruptions can be especially harmful to children, older adults and people with lung disease. Exposure to volcanic ash can trigger asthma attacks and cause wheezing, coughing, and respiratory irritation in individuals with sensitive airways. Exposure to the gases in vog can cause a range of harmful effects on the lungs, including wheezing, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. The particulate matter in vog can cause asthma exacerbations, heart attacks and can even lead to death.

The following guidelines will help protect your lung health and should be followed especially by those at highest risk, including children and teens; people who are pregnant; the elderly; anyone with chronic lung disease, cardiovascular disease or diabetes; and healthy adults who must work outdoors.

Follow These Tips to Protect Your Lungs During a Volcanic Eruption

At Home:

• Stay inside until the dust settles, with doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut. Place damp towels at door thresholds and other draft sources; tape drafty windows.
• Put air conditioners on the recirculation setting so outside air will not be moved into the room and clean air will circulate through air conditioners and air cleaners. 
• Take extra precautions for children, older adults and people with lung diseases, who are more susceptible to gases and smoke.
• Don’t smoke and avoid secondhand smoke, as it is important to keep indoor air clean when you cannot go outside.

If You Go Outside:

• If you must drive in affected areas, keep your windows and vents closed. Air conditioning should only be operated in the "recirculate" setting.
• Don't count on a dust mask. Ordinary dust masks, designed to filter out large particles, will not help as they still allow the more dangerous smaller particles to pass through. Special, more expensive dust masks with true HEPA filters will filter out the damaging fine particles but may not fit well and are difficult for people with lung disease to use. Consult with your physician before using a mask, especially if you have a lung disease. An N-95 mask is most highly recommended for protection from particle pollution.
• Check the Air Quality Index before going outside. If you have a lung disease or other chronic disease, refrain from all outdoor exercise if the air quality forecast is code orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups) or higher.

Symptoms can appear as late as 24 to 48 hours after exposure. Particle pollution can remain in areas for many days after the volcanic event has ended and become airborne again during recovery and cleanup.

Cleanup

• Wait for the ash to stop falling and follow local authorities' instructions regarding cleanup procedures, including where to dispose of ashes.
• Sensitive populations, such as individuals with lung disease, children and older adults should avoid cleanup duties if possible.
• Before you begin cleaning up, make sure you are wearing protective gear such as a properly fitted N-95 mask or respirator. Also wear goggles and protective clothing that covers your skin.
• If you are cleaning indoors open doors and windows to help improve ventilation.
• Use damp, dustless cleaning methods like damp rags and vacuums to help avoid making the ash airborne.
• Residents and volunteers should use caution during cleanup because the process involves redispersing ash and other particulates back into the air.