Full Notification

Bogoslov Volcano has erupted again and trace amounts of ashfall have been detected in Unalaska.  In the event of significant ashfall in Unalaska it is important to be aware of the potential health risks and problems associated with transportation and basic utilities.  The following list outlines a number of actions you can take to limit your exposure to volcanic ash and protect yourself and your property during clean-up:

• Monitor Air Quality Advisories (http:...//dec.alaska.gov/Applicatio…/Air/airtoolsweb/Advisories) and act accordingly
• Wear an N95, N99, or N100 mask if you have to go outdoors in bad ash conditions (note: beards limit the effectiveness of masks). If you don’t have a mask, use a wet handkerchief
• Close windows, doors, and fireplace/woodstove dampers, and minimize the use of forced air heaters and air conditioners to prevent ash and gases from getting inside the home
• Replace or clean furnace filters following a substantial ashfall event
• Wear goggles while outdoors, or while cleaning up ash that has gotten indoors
• Wet ash prior to clean-up to avoid re-suspension of particulates
• Keep your skin covered to avoid irritation from contact with ash
• If there is ash in your water, let it settle and then use the clear water. In rare cases where there is a lot of ash in the water supply, do not use your dishwasher or washing machine
• Clear roofs of ash in excess of four inches to avoid roof collapse
• Minimize travel – driving in ash is dangerous to you and could damage your car