Volcanoes and people don’t mix: Why you really need to heed warnings to stay away

The closest most people will get to a volcanic eruption is a science class experiment. Mixing vinegar and baking soda can be a huge mess, but volcanic eruptions have the ability to crush entire cities. Eruptions can create lasting effects for the entire world.

For people in Guatemala and Hawaii, the hazards caused by volcanoes are all too real right now. Thousands of residents in Hawaii have been displaced as Kilauea continues to erupt, and the death toll has climbed following the eruption of Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala.

A man uses a gas mask to protect from
harmful volcanic ash in May in Hawaii.
(Photo by Grace Simoneau/FEMA)

The U.S. has over 150 active volcanoes, two of which — Kilauea and Mauna Lau, also in Hawaii — are among the world’s most active volcanoes. This may seem like a shocking number, but an active volcano is simply one that has erupted in the past 10,000 years. So while it’s unlikely that a volcano is going to erupt in your backyard, you may be living in a volcano hazard zone.

Volcanoes often show warning signs of eruption, but your time for action may be short. There are several steps you can follow to make sure you’re prepared in the event of a volcanic eruption:

• Know what is going on around you. The Volcano Hazards Program offers real-time updates on volcanic activity in the U.S. If you live in a volcano hazard zone, sign up for alerts from the Volcano Notification System. 
• Have a plan of action. Volcanoes produce lava, ash, gases and debris that cause air pollution, water contamination and bodily harm. You’ll want to have a kit ready with face masks, water, goggles, a battery-operated radio and other emergency supplies. Talk to your family about an evacuation plan including emergency contacts, places to meet and a plan for pets.
• If a volcano erupts, it’s time to act. Always follow evacuation instructions from local authorities. Don’t linger, and don’t stick around to take photos or videos — it’s not worth your life. When outside, cover your eyes with goggles, your mouth with a face mask and as much of your skin as possible. Then seek shelter. If inside, continue to cover your eyes, mouth and skin. Close and seal all doors, windows and other points of entry. 
• After the eruption, let your friends and family know you’re OK by using systems such as Safe and Well and social media. Avoid driving in ash and only go outside if authorities say it’s safe to do so. Take caution when clearing ash and debris from homes and cars, as ash can weaken structures and cause roofs to collapse. 

Preparing now can protect you and your family later. For more tips, check out our Get Ready fact sheet.