THE Department of Health yesterday advised residents living near Bulusan volcano in the province of Sorsogon to stay indoors due to the ashfall generated by its phreatic explosion yesterday morning.
In a public health warning, the DOH said the volcanic ash emitted by the volcano contains carbon dioxide and fluorine that can have a detrimental effect on human health if inhaled.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the alert status of Bulusan volcano Alert Level 1 (low level unrest) from O (normal).
The DOH advised residents in the area to avoid direct exposure to volcanic ash; stay inside households and close doors and windows; keep the environment wet to prevent ambient dust and put damp curtains on windows and doors; avoid inhaling air with ashfall and use glasses or goggles; keep animals in closed shelters; remove ash from the roof of the house; know the situation of the roads before traveling and obey traffic laws; prepare an emergency bag (Go Bag) and bring an adequate supply of water, food, clothing, first aid, and medicines; listen to the advice of local authorities on what to do next; always wear always wear a face mask, protective gear for the eyes, and coverings for the skin;
wash hands properly before cooking and before eating; rinse vegetables and fruits with running water; cover water containers properly; ensure stored food has not expired; do not scratch or rub your eyes. If the eyes are irritated, rinse them with lukewarm and running water; and consult a doctor immediately if they have vision problems.
The volcano’s phreatic eruption, according to PHIVOLCS, occurred at 10:37 a.m.
Last month, Bulusan volcano also spewed voluminous gas and ashes that prompted local authorities to evacuate residents in nearby communities.
