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Disaster Preparedness Quiz | Tsunami, Volcanic Eruption and Ashfall Decisions — Set 6

1 / 100.0s

Problem 1

After a tsunami warning is issued, you evacuate to high ground. Coastal observations report that the first wave was 20 cm, and a family member says, “That is small enough for us to go back for our belongings.” What is the most appropriate decision?

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Tsunamis can arrive repeatedly over a long period, and a later wave may be higher. A small first or intermediate observation does not establish the maximum wave. Do not return to the coast or home while a tsunami warning or advisory remains in effect; continue evacuating in a safe place.

Problem 2

While you are swimming, you cannot hear a siren, but a lifeguard begins waving a red-and-white checkered flag. Based on the meaning of the tsunami flag, what should you do?

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The red-and-white checkered tsunami flag visually communicates that a major tsunami warning, tsunami warning or tsunami advisory has been issued. It enables people in the water who cannot hear an alarm to begin evacuating. Leave the water and move away from the coast without waiting there to identify the exact alert type.

Problem 3

A tsunami advisory is issued for the coast with a forecast maximum wave of 1 metre. A person fishing from rocks says, “It is only an advisory, not a warning, so I can continue.” What is the most appropriate advice?

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A tsunami advisory does not mean that there is no danger. Fast currents can sweep away people in the water and capsize small boats. Anyone in the water must leave immediately, while people on rocks or the shore should stop their activity, move away from the coast and follow local instructions.

Problem 4

A tsunami warning is issued while you are on a riverside path several kilometres upstream from the river mouth. One route to an evacuation building follows the level riverbank; another is slightly longer but leaves the river and crosses higher ground. If there is no contrary local direction, which route is most appropriate?

View explanation

A tsunami can travel upstream in a river, and a tsunami warning requires people along rivers as well as the coast to evacuate. Merely moving upstream does not mean leaving the river. Unless an approved route or local direction says otherwise, avoid routes that remain along the river or coast and move toward safe higher ground.

Problem 5

Along with a tsunami warning, information for one location gives an expected tsunami arrival time of 3:20 p.m. and high tide at 3:30 p.m. Which interpretation is most appropriate?

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When tsunami arrival overlaps with high tide, the combined sea level can be higher and inundation damage more likely. Similar times are a reason for greater caution, not reassurance. An expected arrival time is not an all-clear time; remain evacuated until the warning is lifted.

Problem 6

Volcanic Alert Level 3, “Do not approach the volcano,” is announced. A prospective climber and residents at the foot of the mountain outside the stated danger zone check the information. Which interpretation is most appropriate?

View explanation

At Level 3, access to the mountain is restricted in areas where volcanic hazards are expected. It does not automatically require every resident to evacuate, but danger zones and resident actions vary by volcano. Climbers and residents must check the specified restricted area and the municipality’s instructions.

Problem 7

Volcanic Alert Level 4, “Evacuation of the elderly, etc.,” is announced, and your home is in the residential warning area designated by the municipality. You live with an older person who needs extra time to walk. What is the most appropriate response?

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The Level 4 keyword is “Evacuation of the elderly, etc.” In residential areas requiring caution, people who need more time should begin evacuating, while other residents prepare. The affected area and open destinations differ by volcano and municipality, so follow the specific evacuation information and routes.

Problem 8

While climbing an active volcano, you receive an eruption alert and small volcanic rocks and ash begin to fall. A mountain hut and a rock outcrop are nearby. What should you do first?

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While volcanic rocks are falling, first take temporary refuge in a mountain hut, shelter or behind a rock where your head and body are protected. Use a helmet and goggles, and cover your mouth with a mask or damp towel. Do not prioritize filming or exposed movement; after the eruption subsides, descend promptly while following current instructions.

Problem 9

Ash continues to fall, road markings are difficult to see, and ash has accumulated on the road. When deciding about a necessary trip, which approach is most appropriate?

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Volcanic ash reduces visibility, hides road markings and makes surfaces slippery. Vehicle type and wipers do not remove those risks. Avoid unnecessary driving; if driving is unavoidable, follow road restrictions and official advice, use headlights and reduce speed substantially.

Problem 10

After ashfall, you need to clean ash from in front of your home. The municipality instructs residents to bag it and take it to a designated location. Which method best reduces health risks and damage to drainage systems?

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During cleanup, protect your lungs and eyes with a dust mask and goggles, lightly dampen the ash to keep it from becoming airborne, and bag it as directed by the municipality. Saturating ash or washing it into gutters and sewers can cause blockages. Avoid contact lenses and methods that disperse dry ash.