2018-05-12 DOH talking points regarding the eruption, health hazards -- press release

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Kilauea Volcano Lava Flow Public Health Messages and Social Media Posts (Revised as of 5/12/2017) Prepared by: Hawaii State Department of Health Communications Office Prepared for: Hawaii County Emergency Operations Center Talking points:  Eruptions cause hazardous emissions: Sulfur dioxide (SO) gas and other 2 emissions are extremely hazardous, especially for people who are close to the vents and lava flows.  Masks do not provide effective protection: Masks and respirators available to consumers will not protect from the extremely dangerous volcanic gases and particulate matter released from the lava flow. Leaving the area of volcanic activity is the best way to protect yourself and your family.  Monitor vog levels, air quality data and forecasts: People on Hawaii Island outside the area of volcanic activity are advised to monitor levels of vog. Information on vog conditions can be found at the Hawaii Interagency Vog Information Dashboard at https://vog.ivhhn.org/.  Take precautions, especially if you are vulnerable to vog: When levels of vog are high: o Avoid outdoor activities that cause heavy breathing, o Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, o Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke, o Stay indoors and close windows and doors, o If an air conditioner is used, set it to recirculate, o Always keep medications on hand and readily available, o Daily prescribed medications, should be taken on schedule and may provide relief from the effects of sulfur dioxide, and o Contact a doctor as soon as possible if any health problems develop. Take steps to ensure safe use of water catchment systems: Volcanic emissions may contaminate water catchment sources, making them unsuitable for drinking or preparing food. DOH does not recommend using catchment water for consumption. Guidance on maintaining catchment systems safely can be found at http://health.hawaii.gov/sdwb/files/2018/05/Residential_RainCatch_Info.doc.pdf  Take time to maintain and improve mental health: Many people are feeling emotional distress from the volcanic activity. Talk to your family members and friends to maintain a strong support system. Help children by sharing age- appropriate information and being honest. For help with feelings of stress and anxiety, call The Crisis Line of Hawaii 24/7 at 808-832-3100 on Oahu and toll- free at 1-800-753-6879 for neighbor islands. Page 1 of 2