Rhelyn Harder
- Volcanic ash is frozen lava that mostly made of silicon compound.
- Department of Health warns people about inhaling volcanic ash
- DOH also advises the public to take the following precautionary measures to volcanic ash
According to Forbes, Volcanic ash is a frozen lava that mostly made of silicon compound. When it freezes from its molten state, it would look like sand and if it does on a rapid pace, it becomes glass.
An individual fragment could measure no longer than two millimeters across, but often times it is finer than that.
When ashfall happens, people need to clean it up as soon as possible to prevent accidents and collapsing of structures.
The Department of Health also warns people that inhaling volcanic ash could let you suffer the following:
- Nose and throat irritation
- Coughing
- Bronchitis-like illness
- Discomfort while breathing
- Eye irritation
- Minor skin problems
“Anyone who already suffers from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma should avoid exposure to volcanic ash,” the DOH said.
The DOH also advises the public to take the following pracautionary measures:
- Minimize exposure to ash
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- Keep doors and windows closed
- Keep home from infiltration by using damp curtains, blankets or clothing
- Use dust masks
- Wear goggles or eyeglasses to protect eyes from irritation
- Keep pets in closed shelter
- Clear your roof of ash
- Observe traffic notifications and road safety measure
After the eruption of the Taal volcano in Batangas, the health department and other goverment agencies to heightend their alert level to the cause of the eruption and ashfall.
