Jakarta (ANTARA) – The Jakarta Environment Office has tightened air quality monitoring following reports of ash deposits after volcanic ash believed to have originated from Mount Anak Krakatau spread across parts of the capital.
Jakarta Environment Office Head Dudi Gardesi said here on Sunday that his office had strengthened coordination with the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), the Jakarta Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), and the Jakarta Health Office.
“Every change in conditions must be immediately followed by updated information so that residents know what steps to take. The protection of cleaning workers in the field must also be ensured,” Gardesi said in an official statement.
According to BMKG data as of 5 a.m. local time on September 6, volcanic ash had spread across parts of Jakarta.
Gardesi urged residents in areas affected by ashfall or deteriorating air quality to limit non-essential outdoor activities and postpone outdoor exercise.
“If it is necessary to go outside in an ash-affected environment, use an N95 mask or equivalent that fits tightly over the nose and mouth,” he said.
During ashfall, residents are advised to stay indoors and close doors and windows to reduce the amount of ash entering buildings.
Children, older people, and residents with asthma, lung disease, or heart disease require special attention.
School administrators, event organizers, and employers are urged to adjust outdoor activities according to local conditions.
“For cleaning workers, I am asking that the availability of masks, eye protection, and safe work arrangements become a priority for all relevant staff,” Gardesi said.
If ash deposits are found at home, residents are advised to clean them using a damp cloth or mop.
They should avoid dry sweeping or blowing the ash, as this can cause it to become airborne again.
“Use a mask and eye protection while cleaning, and protect food, drinking water, and water storage from ash,” he added.
Residents experiencing persistent respiratory problems or eye irritation are advised to seek medical examination at health facilities.
In cases of severe shortness of breath or other emergencies, residents are urged to seek immediate medical assistance and contact 112, a 24-hour emergency service available free of charge.
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Translator: Lia, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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