Mount ST. Helens Eruption Imminent-Protect Your Pets Now
Sleeping quietly for the last 24 years Mount ST. Helens in Toutle, Washington awoke Friday, October 1, 2004 with a resounding burp of steam and gas, warning the Pacific Northwest she's still a force to be reckoned with. After a sustained tremor and a release of sulfurous smelling gas and carbon monoxide around noon on Saturday it became clear St. Helens had the possibility of spewing super hot magma, rocks and ash farther than previously thought. The Level 2 Volcano Alert was raised to Level 3. You may know how to keep yourself safe but what about your pets?
Portland, OR (PRWEB) October 5, 2004
With the grumbling, growling and tremors within Mount ST. Helens growing more intense Saturday afternoon the United States Geographical Society (USGS) has raised the volcano alert from a Level 2 to the highest possible Level 3. Declaring an eruption imminent an estimated 2500 people were removed from the Johnston Ridge Observatory and the Loowit and Windy Ridge Viewpoints were closed.
Scientists expect the coming eruption to include gaseous new magma, rocks and ash fall. Communities in the outlying areas as far south as Portland have been warned to prepare for possible ash fall.
Volcanic ash is not a toxic substance but it can cause a great deal of damage if inhaled or rubbed in the eyes. It's corrosive, gritty and very unpleasant. Even though it can look like snow when it falls it doesn't just melt away. It gets into everything and can create health problems for both people and their animals. Pets, just like people, can develop respiratory problems or eye abrasions from ash particles. Animals that need to go outdoors during an ash fall or where ash has accumulated are the most susceptible.
If you live in an area where ash fall may occur take these safety precautions regarding your pets:
1. Store extra food and drinking water.
2. Keep extra medicine on hand.
3. Keep your animals under cover, if possible.
During an ash fall:
1. Keep pets indoors. If pets go out, brush or vacuum them before letting them indoors. Be sure to clean between the paw pads so they don't lick and ingest accumulated ash particles.
2. Make sure they are in a covered, enclosed area and have clean food and water if you are unable to bring them indoors.
3. Discourage active play in dusty settings.
For more information on pet care or safety information and preparation before a possible volcanic eruption go to:
"http://vulcan. wr. usgs. gov/Hazards/Safety/what_to_do_during_ashfall. html" (http://vulcan. wr. usgs. gov/Hazards/Safety/what_to_do_during_ashfall. html")
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