EMS in the ash zone: Alaska’s Mount Spurr and the volcanic challenge

In this episode of the EMS One-Stop podcast, host Rob Lawrence is joined by Deputy Director Tracey Loscar from Mat-Su Borough EMS in Alaska. Together, they discuss the looming threat of Mount Spurr, a volcano located 75 miles west of Anchorage, which is currently showing signs of potential eruption. Loscar provides insights into disaster management and preparedness in a region where EMS operations are stretched across vast, remote territories. The conversation also touches on how to plan for the unexpected, especially in an environment with limited resources and harsh geographical challenges. This episode delves into the logistical challenges faced by EMS in the face of volcanic activity and offers critical lessons in disaster management. TIMELINE 00:22 – Rob Lawrence welcomes Deputy Director Tracey Loscar and sets the stage for a discussion on disaster management in Alaska 02:10 – Loscar gives a brief overview of Mat-Su Borough and its proximity to Mount Spurr 04:01 –Loscar discusses her transition from Newark, New Jersey, to Mat-Su Borough and the challenges of EMS in rural Alaska 06:00 – Lawrence and Loscar discuss the vast distances and limited resources available in the region 08:01 – Loscar explains the preparations for the potential ash fallout from Mount Spur, including messaging to the community and respiratory protection 10:04 – The conversation shifts to the nature of volcanic ash and the practical challenges it presents to infrastructure, vehicles and personal health 14:36 – Loscar shares lessons learned from previous seismic events, such as the 2018 earthquake, and emphasizes the importance of clear communication during disasters 17:06 – Lawrence and Loscar discuss EMS liaison roles and the need for better coordination between dispatch, EDs and field teams 18:01 – Loscar talks about the current status of the Mount Spur eruption, with no immediate risk but preparations ongoing, and discusses how Alaskans stay calm and prepared in the face of frequent natural events, from earthquakes to volcanic eruptions 20:03 – Loscar highlights the importance of including pets in emergency plans, emphasizing the need for respiratory protection for animals 21:00 – The role of pantyhose in volcano preparedness RATE AND REVIEW Enjoying the show? Contact the EMS One-Stop team at [email protected] to share ideas, suggestions and feedback.