Ashfall Reaches Eight Villages Across Negros Occidental
BACOLOD - What would you do if volcanic ash began falling outside your home? That question became a pressing concern after a moderately explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano affected eight villages across Negros Occidental, according to an October 13 report by RPN News. Ashfall was reported in Barangays Igmayaan, Bunga, Bacong, Proper, Kumaliskis, Bago, and Pandaon in Don Salvador Benedicto, as well as Barangay Ara-al in La Carlota City. The Office of Civil Defense–Negros Island Region delivered 5,040 face masks to Don Salvador Benedicto to help residents protect themselves from airborne ash and respiratory irritants. Other communities reported volcanic sounds, visible plumes, or sulfur odors, underscoring the importance of monitoring official announcements even when ashfall has not been recorded in a particular area.
Prepare Your Home and Emergency Kit Before Ash Begins Falling
Preparation starts with keeping essential supplies accessible rather than waiting until an eruption occurs. Households should prepare well-fitting N95 respirators for adults, protective goggles, drinking water, essential medicines, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and a battery-powered radio or fully charged phone. When ashfall begins, stay indoors if authorities have not instructed you to evacuate, close windows and doors, and turn off fans or ventilation systems that could draw ash inside. If you must go outdoors, wear a properly fitted N95 respirator, eye protection, long sleeves, and long pants, and limit your time outside. Ordinary cloth masks and surgical masks do not provide the same level of protection against fine volcanic ash as a properly fitted particulate respirator.
Clean Up Carefully and Follow Verified Safety Advisories
After ashfall, avoid sweeping dry ash because it can become airborne again and be inhaled. Lightly dampen ash before collecting it where appropriate, use suitable respiratory and eye protection, and follow local government instructions for disposal. Avoid unnecessary driving during heavy ashfall because ash can reduce visibility, make roads slippery, and damage vehicle engines; if you must drive, keep windows closed and turn off outside-air ventilation. Do not climb onto a roof to remove ash unless it is safe and you have appropriate assistance, since accumulated ash can be heavy and slippery. Most importantly, follow updates from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the Office of Civil Defense, and your local disaster risk reduction and management office, and seek medical assistance if breathing difficulties or persistent eye irritation occur.
