Mt Tongariro eruption: Update 1 – 9.00am Tuesday, 7 August 2012 - 7/08/2012Wanganui Civil Defence and Emergency Management is monitoring the situation after Mt Tongariro erupted last night.
There is no immediate concern for Wanganui, with ash currently moving east from the central plateau. Wanganui District schools have been advised that at this stage there are no safety concerns about children being outside.
During a volcanic eruption
- Listen to the radio for civil defence advice and follow instructions.
- If outside at the time of eruption, seek shelter in a car or a building. If caught in volcanic ashfalls, wear a dust mask or use a handkerchief or cloth over your nose and mouth.
- Stay indoors as volcanic ash is a health hazard, especially if you have respiratory difficulties such as asthma or bronchitis.
- When indoors, close all windows and doors to limit the entry of volcanic ash. Place damp towels at thresholds.
- Do not tie up phone lines with non-emergency calls.
- If you have to go outside use protective gear such as masks and goggles and keep as much of your skin covered as possible. Wear eyeglasses, not contact lenses as these can cause corneal abrasions.
- Disconnect drainpipes/downspouts from gutters to stop drains clogging. If you use a rainwater collection system for your water supply, disconnect the tank.
- Stay out of designated restricted zones.
- Listen to your local radio station for information and follow the advice and instructions from Civil Defence Emergency Management.
Wanganui radio frequencies in an emergency:
National Radio 567AM or 101.6FM
Newstalk ZB 1197AM
Classic Hits 89.6FM
Radio Live 96FM
More FM 92.8FM
The Avenue 105.6FM
Your Emergency Survival Kit should contain a battery powered radio with spare batteries, or use your car radio. More information on Wanganui Civil Defence Emergency Management is available on this page. |
