What do I do if there’s a volcano eruption while I’m on holiday?
Most Aussies can’t resist a getaway in exotic destinations. They’ve usually got amazing food, weather and adventures… but sometimes these beautiful holiday hotspots also have volcanos. Some may be dormant, but some may be a little less sleepy, making volcano eruptions a potential risk.
Source: Getty
Not sure which popular places have volcanos? They’re often located around the ‘ring of fire’. This is a horse-shoe shaped area where the Earth’s plates meet... and volcanoes (and earthquakes!) are more common. New Zealand, the west coast of the US, Japan, Indonesia and Chile are just some of the countries you’ll find along the ‘ring of fire’ with volcanos, and yes, they’re all loved by tourists.
Don’t cross amazing places of your travel to-do list just because they’re known for volcano eruptions, though. Instead, be aware of what to expect before you go – so you can soak up the adventure and feel ready for any surprises Mother Nature might throw your way.
'It’s smart to stay across local news while travelling, especially if you’re in a volcano-prone spot. You should also check the safety advice on our Cover-More app. If there are signs a volcano will erupt, follow the local authorities’ instructions, and move to a safe location immediately. Act fast if there are signs a volcano will erupt – your safety should always come first.
'If you need extra support or advice, ring our 24/7 emergency assistance team – they'll be ready to take your call and talk you through what to do next. Looking out for our travellers is what we do.'
- Rodger Cook, Cover-More's General Manager of Global Security.
Did you know you can share your location with us through our Cover-More app before you set off on a trip? That way, we can send real-time alerts and other safety advice straight to your phone if there’s an emergency situation (like a volcano eruption!) near where you are.
Do you need emergency assistance right now?
Our 24/7 emergency assistance team is standing by. Here’s how to reach us fast:
- Tap the assistance button in our Cover-More app.
- Call +61 2 8907 5619 from anywhere in the world.
Five steps to take if there’s a volcano eruption while you’re holiday:
- Stay informed.
- Get ready to evacuate.
- Ask for help.
- Focus on your safety.
- Keep the documents you need to make a claim.
Here’s what to do if a volcano erupts
Try not to panic, stay calm and follow advice from those in the know.
Source: Getty
Step 1: Stay informed
We get it. Hearing there’s a volcano eruption nearby when you’re on your dream holiday can be worrying. And spotting signs a volcano will erupt? That’s not exactly the postcard moment you were hoping for.
But here’s the deal: staying calm is key to staying safe. Easier said than done, we know. (But we’re here if you need us.)
Knowledge is power during a volcanic eruption. So, stay up to date – as much as you can – about the volcano eruption from reliable sources. The more you know, the more prepared you’ll be. Plus, you’ll be less likely to panic.
It’s good idea to listen to local TV and radio reports, and follow the social media accounts of local police, fire departments and national parks.
Plus, sign up for emergency phone notifications. The more informed you are, the smarter your decisions will be to keep yourself and your fellow travellers safe.
Step 2: Get ready to evacuate
Follow the news and local information to stay on top of changes to the volcano in eruption – whether it’s lava, ash and smoke volumes, or pyroclastic flow (the technical term for hot gas and other volcanic matter that can travel very fast).
Even if the local authorities haven’t given clear instructions on what to do next, it’s a good idea to get ready to evacuate. Why? Because the order could come at short notice. So, you’ll want to be prepared and ready to go asap.
Here are a few things you could do while you wait:
- Ask your accommodation about their evacuation plans and safe assembly zones.
- Prepare a ‘go bag’ with your phone, charger, passport and other important personal belongings. Plus, pack some water, medications, snacks, face masks and a first-aid kit.
- Make a plan with your travel buddies about where you’ll go, and how you’ll stay in touch in case you’re separated.
Yes, this all sounds very stressful, and not what you want on holiday. But, being ready and knowing what to do will help you stay calm and safe.
Step 3: Call our 24/7 emergency assistance team
Local authorities are your go-to for help and advice during this time. But don’t forget, we’re here for you too. We know this is a scary time, and our 24/7 emergency assistance team’s here to support you and help you make safer choices.
Whether you just want a bit of reassurance because you’re feeling understandably anxious or you need emergency help or medical treatment fast, tap the assistance icon in the Cover-More app, or call +61 2 8907 5619 from anywhere in the world.
Step 4: Focus on your safety
If you’re in immediate danger from a volcano in eruption, do what you can to get to safety. If you can evacuate, do so calmly and safely, either to higher ground, away from the lava flow, or to official evacuation zones. Keep following the advice of the local authorities. Once you’re safe, check in with family and friends to let them know you’re ok.
If you can’t evacuate, shelter in a sturdy building. Close all windows and doors, and use damp cloths to seal them to keep smoke and ash out. Try not to panic, and stay tuned to local news info on the volcano and evacuation advice.
Step 5: Keep the documents you need to make a claim
At Cover-More, we define a volcano eruption as a natural disaster. That means our Additional Expenses cover may kick in and help with unexpected transport or accommodation costs you have to pay because of the volcano eruption. You can read more about this in our Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
If you want to make a claim, it’s important to keep hold of all receipts for expenses caused by the volcano eruption. If you had to find new accommodation, rent a car, buy new flights or your luggage has been damaged or lost – keep the receipts with you. You can find out more in the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS).
Got questions? Jump on a call with our friendly customer service team on 1300 72 88 22, and they can help and support you. When you’re ready (and within 60 days of getting home if possible), file a claim online. You can also ring our claims team for help with this. They’re waiting for your call on 1300 36 26 44.
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