Public told to take precautions from ashfall

The Department of Public Health has issued a volcanic ash health advisory, urging the public to take precaution and noting there is a possibility of ashfall over Saipan, Tinian, and Rota during the next few days from the small eruption on Anatahan.

The advisory also cited that the passing storm could change prevailing winds and bring the volcanic plume over the islands.

High levels of ash in the air are not expected to cause significant health effects for Commonwealth residents, however, if ashfall does become heavy, air quality can be adversely affected.

DPH secretary Dr. James U. Hofschneider recommended that individuals with serious lung problems, such as asthma, to avoid prolonged outdoor air exposure or exertion during the time that ash is present in the air.

“If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid contact with any amount of ash. Stay indoors until local health officials advise that it is safe to go outside,” he said in the advisory. “Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance, including infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities.”

He indicated that the Commonwealth Health Center is ready for “any additional need for emergency assistance that might be required.”

DPH also cautioned the public on water contamination, saying that although health effects from ash mixing onto water are very rare, it is possible that the water may become highly acidic or contain too much fluoride.

“[DPH] would like to remind all residents to protect their water source from falling volcanic ash,” the advisory read. “It is best not to drink water that has been collected from rainfall during a volcanic eruption.”

Water tanks should be closed and covered and roof collections systems should be turned off.

If water is contaminated or has an acid taste or smell, residents are cautioned not to drink the water. To purify the water, add 10 drops of chlorine bleach to one gallon of water and let it stand for 30 minutes, or boil water for five minutes.

All residents are encouraged to consume only bottled water until their alternative source of drinking water has been flushed and cleared of all volcanic debris.

Affected water, however, is safe for cleaning vegetables and fruits. “The ash will not harm the fruits or vegetables, but wash them thoroughly.”

Affected water is also safe for washing clothes, taking showers, and flushing toilets. When washing clothes, use extra detergent.

Further, DPH advised that when outside, individuals must cover their mouths and nose as volcanic ash can irritate respiratory system. Goggles are also recommended to protect eyes and skin should be covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash.

Also, residents are urged to clear roofs of ashfall, which is very heavy and can cause buildings to collapse, the DPH said. “Exercise great caution when working on roofs.”

Individuals are also urged to avoid driving in heavy ashfall.

“Driving will stir up more ash that can clog engines and stall vehicles,” the DPH said.

Meanwhile, no threat of significant vog—volcanic smog—or acid precipitation is expected from the eruption.

Health complaints related to vog include headaches, breathing difficulties, increased susceptibility to respiratory ailments, watery eyes, sore throat, flu-like symptoms, and a general lack of energy.