Car Safety: If a Volcano Erupts

Car Safety: If a Volcano Erupts Today

It’s impossible to discuss volcanoes and not discuss the properties of volcanic ash -- rock that has literally been pulverized into dust or sand by volcanic activity. In a very large eruption, volcanic ash, especially when it is accompanied by rocks, can have the weight and density of hailstones.

Ash fall also blocks sunlight, reduces visibility and can sometimes cause completed darkness. As if that weren’t frightening enough, it can also be accompanied by lighting.

Ash Fall and Machinery

There’s no getting around it, when it comes to car safety, if a volcano erupts, there’s a good chance your car won’t run. That’s because ash abrades and jams machinery. It can also contaminate and clog ventilation, water supplies and drains. Additionally, ash also causes electrical short circuits, especially as it pertains to wet transmission lines. Needless to say, power often goes out during, and after, ashf all.

Volcano Eruption and Your Car

So, what can you do to keep your car safe if a volcano erupts? There are two components to this answer:

• Before the ash fall: Experts claim that the best way to handle an emergency is to always carry a few items in your vehicle in case of delays, emergencies or mechanical failures. These items include:
  • Dust masks and eye protection, such as sunglasses or goggles
  • Plenty of blankets and extra clothing
  • Emergency food and drinking water
  • General emergency supplies such as a first aid kit, flashlight, fire extinguisher, flares, matches, etc.
  • A waterproof tarp and some heavy tow rope
  • Extra air and oil filters, windshield wiper blades and washer fluid.
  • A cell phone with an extra battery.

• During and after an ash fall: There are certain tasks that must be done during and after an ash fall, including:
  • If at all possible, do not drive. Volcanic ash is extremely harmful to vehicles as it clogs the car’s air filter making if very difficult and dangerous to drive.
  • If you have no other choice and truly must drive, then do so slowly, use your headlights and use ample amounts of windshield washer fluid as you go along.
  • Change your oil, oil filters and air filters frequently. Most experts recommend changing these filters every 50 to 100 miles.
• Do not drive without an air filter. If you are unable to change your air filter, then clean it by blowing air through it from the inside out.
• In the event that your car stalls or if your brakes fail, most experts recommend that you push your car to the side of the road to avoid collisions. You should also stay with your car.

A Final Word

So what can car safety: if a volcano erupts teach us? The most important thing to remember is to be prepared well in advance of any possible eruptions. Stock your car with the necessary first aid kits, tarps and the like, just in case any natural disasters were to occur.

In addition, it’s important to keep in mind that experts strongly advise against driving during an ash fall. If you do need to drive, you are advised to do so slowly, all the while changing the appropriate filters. Overall, the very best thing you can do is to be prepared. No matter what happens, it will substantially help you in the long run.