Mount erupted is an event that occurs due to sediment of magma in the bowels of the earth that is driven out by a gas that is high pressure. Magma is a fluid contained in a layer of earth with a very high temperature, which is estimated at more than 1,000 ° C.
Mount Agung last erupted in 1963, after sleeping for 120 years. At that time, as many as 1,600 people were killed and 86,000 others had lost their homes. Eruption at that time began on 19 to 26 February 1963. Volcanic ash and a number of small stones peppered Besakih tample located on the slopes of Mount Agung. Hot clouds and lava flows also accompany the eruption.
Volcanic ash, often referred to as volcanic sand or pyroclastic fall is a volcanic material falling into the air during an eruption, consisting of large to medium-sized rocks. Large rocks (pebbles) usually fall around the crater to a radius of 5 – 7 km from the crater, and the finer ones can fall at distances of hundreds of miles and even thousands of miles from the crater as they may be affected by wind gusts. Smooth ash can cause pneumonia if inhaled.
Some of the symptoms that can arise after inhaling volcanic ash include:
Respiratory irritation, sputum secretion rises, irritation and inflammation of the throat, dry cough, chest pain and difficulty breathing, and symptoms of asthma, eye irritation (reddened eyes)eyes feel itchy and sore, tears come out continuously, abrasion of the cornea of the eye due to scratches of volcanic ash, so the eye becomes sore
Health Hazard by Volcanic Ash
To prevent the adverse health effects caused by volcanic materials, especially volcanic ash and dust, use a mask or cloth to cover the mouth and nose. This is done as a step to minimize exposure to dust and volcanic ash in the respiratory tract. Especially for those who have a history of respiratory disorders such as asthma or lung disease, the use of a mask is highly preferred, and immediately secure yourself to a place quite spared from exposure to volcanic materials. Children and the elderly should also be prioritized to use a safety mask.
In addition, use glasses to protect the eyes to avoid irritation and impaired vision. Using a closed suit (trousers and shirt covering the whole arm) is also advised to prevent skin disorders that can be caused by dust and volcanic ash.
Good mask when the mountain erupts
Health experts advise people in areas affected by ash to wear masks when outdoors. The recommended mask is the N 95 or P2 category because it prevents materials that are less than 10 microns to 0.3 millimeters of particle. Volcanic ash has a size less than 5 microns are very vulnerable to enter the lower respiratory tract like to the lungs.
Keep in mind today that is often used by the community is a surgical mask is light green is a medical mask that is often used by doctors during surgery. This mask is the easiest to get and with cheap price. Actually dust can still enter through the gaps of the mask because the material is not too thick.
If the emergency does not have both types of masks then the easy way you can use a damp cloth then cultivated can cover the nose and mouth. With the wet conditions will help capture the small particles.
Dr. Adi and Associates
