Mount Spurr Activity: Patient Safety & Clinic Operations Update
With the current increase in activity of Mount Spurr, we want to make sure you are prepared. Familiarize yourselves with the possible hazards of a Mt. Spurr eruption.
From a respiratory health perspective, please approach a volcanic ash event similar to dealing with wildfire smoke. Plan to stay inside, with the windows and doors closed. Use air purifiers if available and wear a well-fitting N95 mask when outdoors.
If you get caught in ash fall without an N95 mask, a fabric mask, even your shirt over your nose and mouth, is better than nothing,
As always, if you are experiencing an acute respiratory crisis, please call 911.
Women’s Care of Alaska will maintain regular operations, regardless of the volcano’s warning level, until there is an active eruption. Despite air hazards, we will not completely close our office to accommodate our obstetric patients. After an eruption (or any other natural disaster), please plan to visit our website for information on clinic updates.
Below you will find links to State of Alaska (SOA), US Geological Survey (USGS), and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) websites on volcanic eruptions, preparation, and safety, along with downloadable PDF information that you can keep on hand.
Alaska Volcano Observatory | Home
Preparing for a Volcanic Eruption | Volcanoes | CDC
Safety Guidelines: During a Volcanic Eruption | Volcanoes | CDC
Safety Guidelines: After a Volcanic Eruption | Volcanoes | CDC