A potential eruption of Mount Spurr can be scary; talking to your children about it doesn’t have to be

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - The Alaska Volcano Observatory has seen an increase in volcanic gas emissions from Mount Spurr in recent weeks, indicating a potential eruption is likely — but not certain — in upcoming weeks or months.

As a precaution, school districts across Southcentral Alaska have released emergency plans in case of an eruption.

These plans may inspire fear in some children, according to Brandy Stratman, senior manager of therapy services at Providence’s adolescent residential treatment program and school-based programs.

She explained that parents shouldn’t hesitate to talk to their children about natural disasters. Instead, she urges them to identify and address specific concerns together with their children.

“‘What happens if it gets in my eyes?’ Well, then let’s figure that out together,” she said, “[Don’t] provide false reassurance because then if it happens, then we’ve lost a little bit of trust.”

Involving children in preparedness efforts can help ease feelings of anxiety around an eruption, Stratman explained, saying that kids are “natural helpers.”

“When we can say, ‘Let’s get everybody’s preparedness bags together,’ if that’s what your family chooses to do,” she said. “That’s a great way to help keep them centered, calm, and feel safe.”

For families wishing to put together preparedness kits, Jeremy Zidek with the Alaska Office of Emergency Management recommends stocking up on N95 masks, gloves, and other personal protective equipment (PPE).

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