What to do during ashfall

• Don't panic - stay calm.
• Stay indoors.
• If outside, seek shelter (e.g. car or building).
• Use a mask, handkerchief or cloth over your nose and mouth.
• If warning is given before ashfall starts, go home from work.
• If at work when ashfall starts, stay indoors until the ash has settled.
• Do not tie up phone lines with non-emergency calls.
• Listen to your local radio for information on the eruption and cleanup plans.
• Do not wear contact lenses as these will result in corneal abrasion.
• If there is ash in your water, let it settle and then use the clear water. If there is a lot of ash in the water supply, do not use your dishwasher or washing machine. Water contaminated by ash will usually make drinking water unpalatable before it presents a health risk.
• You may eat vegetables from the garden, but wash them first.