28 Mar Mt. Spurr Eruption Contingency Plan: What You Need to Know
Dear CITC Participants,
Mt. Spurr, located about 80 miles west of Anchorage, has shown increased volcanic activity recently and we want to share our emergency plans to ensure you are aware of what CITC will do if an eruption occurs in the coming weeks. Your safety and ongoing access to services remain our highest priorities.
When Will These Plans Be Activated?
- These plans will ONLY be implemented if an eruption occurs, and official safety advisories from the Municipality of Anchorage are issued.
- We likely will have 1-2 hour’s notice to shut our facilities down and get our staff safely home. All appointments scheduled for that day and the following day will be canceled and we encourage our participants to follow all appropriate Municipality guidance.
- We anticipate being closed until it is safe to reopen based on conditions.
- You will be notified through multiple channels:
- CITC website and social media updates
- Local emergency broadcast systems
- If you have a scheduled appointment for that day, we will try to reach you via phone
What Happens to My Appointments?
- If buildings close, all in-person appointments will be rescheduled for a future date.
- Our teams will contact you directly to find a convenient time to reschedule.
What About CITC Residential Facilities?
Chanlyut & Ernie Turner Center:
- Both facilities have supplies and emergency protocols to maintain uninterrupted care.
- Designated staff will remain on-site to support residents.
- Participants will be able to contact family members when safe to do so.
How Can I Reach CITC During an Eruption?
- Main CITC Phone: (907) 793-3600 (leave a message, calls will be returned when operations resume)
- The myCITC patient p ortal – access at www.myCITC.com
- The Peer Support Help Line: (907) 793-3646 (Note: During an eruption, responses may be delayed by up to 48 hours)
- Regular updates will be posted on:
- CITC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cookinletalaska/
- ANJC Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ALASKANATIVEJUSTICECENTER/
- www.citci.org
- www.anjc.org
How Should I Prepare Now? The CDC Recommends the Following:
- Create a 3-day emergency supply kit for your household, including:
- Food, water, and essential supplies
- Medications (maintain at least a 7-day supply of critical prescriptions)
- N95 masks or respirators to protect against ash inhalation
- Plastic sheeting and tape for sealing windows and doors
- Call or text 211 for information on food, shelter, and emergency services: https://alaska211.org
- Review the State’s volcanic ash preparation guide for additional tips and resources: https://ready.alaska.gov/Documents/PIO/PressReleases/2025.03.07_Ash%20Alert%20How%20to%20protect%20your%20family,%20home,%20and%20business%20v3.pdf
- Read the State’s Emergency Preparedness FAQ: https://ready.alaska.gov/Documents/PIO/PressReleases/2025.03.19_Mount%20Spurr%20Volcanic%20Ash%20FAQ%20031925.pdf
We’re committed to supporting you through any disruption with minimal impact on your care. Please contact us with any questions or concerns before an eruption occurs.
Stay safe and prepared,
CITC