There is not much an individual can do to prepare for a volcanic eruption, but it is always good to have a good knowledge of this phenomenon. So visiting this website is a great way to start! Be aware of the hazards that can come with an eruption - the flying debris, hot gases, lava flows, potential for explosion, mudslides, avalanches, and geothermal areas. Prepare provisions, water, food, blankets, and medical supplies in case you are unable to reach an equipment supply. Also be ready to get up and outrun flowing lava!

Visitors to volcanoes will find themselves experiencing a beautiful outdoor recreation. These tourist sites usually ask people to use common sense when climbing slopes and sightseeing. Take lots of water, don’t overstrain yourself, and use a guide if you can. When visiting active volcanoes, use caution! Do not venture toward activity, and consult local experts on the area. Follow the recommendations, regulations, or requests of officials. Here are some things to watch out for:

• a) lava flows - Stay away from lava flows. Not all of them will be red-hot and obvious; some move very slowly and appear as dark and solid, but are liquid beneath the surface. Also do not try to cross an active flow, because you might get trapped by multiple lava streams.
• b) pyroclastic flows - Do not visit volcanoes that have pyroclastic explosions, because the rocky material can travel over 100 kilometers. The high temperatures are also life-threatening.
• c) volcanic domes - Volcanic domes and plugs in craters may seem harmless, but they can explode without warning. Footing and glassy rocks can also be very dangerous.
• d) Lahars and floods - Be careful when crossing lahar or debris flows, for they can gush in large and small floods.
• e) gases - Avoid areas where volcanic gas is released. Carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide can kill quickly and silently. You may not be able to hold your breath long enough. If you see any crates with dead vegetation, carcasses, or bones, do not enter it!
• f) geothermal areas - hot springs, mudpots, and geysers are also very interesting, but don’t go across unexplored areas that contain many of them. Stay on marked trails, because the thin silica crusts over boiling pools can break if stepped upon. Falling in can cause third-degree burns or death.

Forces of Nature: ThinkQuest 2000 (Team #C003603)

http://library.thinkquest.org/C003603/english/volcanoes/preparation.shtml