Tuesday, 18 of August of 2015 20:00
COTOPAXI VOLCANO PRESS RELEASE 008 At 18h00 the Geophysics Institute of the Polytechnic University submitted a report that indicated a slight fall of ashes over the towns of José Guango, Tanicuchí, Lasso, Pastocalle, Mulaló and Chasqui, located in the district of Latacunga and the Province of Cotopaxi; an effect of the current volcanic activity. On the other hand, today various national authorities performed several preventive tasks in the potential affected zones: The Secretary of Risk Management continued to train residents living in potential risk zones, within the district of Latacunga (Colcas, Churopinto, El Caspi, San Agustín, Ticatilín, Rumipamba y Callo Mancheno), on safety measures, evacuation routes, meeting points, shelters, and safety measures for animals. After evaluating the effects of the volcanic activity on various neighborhoods within the Province of Cotopaxi, the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries secured 14 tons of cattle feed provisions for these communities in order to mitigate the effects ash can have on the health of animals who eat contaminated grass. Authorities of the Ministry of Public Health visited health clinics located in the towns of Lasso, Mulaló y Guaytacama and hospitals in Latacunga y Salcedo to check the activation of the contingency plans. A large contingent of the National Police was delegated to safeguard the citizens and care for public and private property in the zones of potential risk. In addition, tomorrow Wednesday 19 of August the authorities of the Ministry of Security Coordination and the Secretary of Risk Management will participate in the Council of Emergency Operations of the district of Mejía in order to follow up contingency plans and the implementation of preventive actions. Finally and in light of this continued volcanic activity, particularly due to the ash falls, we remind you of the importance to protect your airways in order to prevent health issues. We recommend covering your eyes appropriately as well as using a clinical mask or damp cloth to cover your nose and mouth.
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