Ashfall protection: 4 substitutes to N95 mask

As of writing, the Taal Volcano is still under Alert Level 4, which means a hazardous eruption may occur within days.

Ashfall from the phreatic eruption of Taal Volcano had reportedly reached Calabarzon and Metro Manila.

And because of this, the demand for N95 masks had gone up. Some drug stores no longer have stocks, while some are reportedly selling it for a higher price of PhP200 each.

As of the moment, there are still some N95 masks available for sale online, but its availability may not last long as the demand is still high.

So, what should you do in the event that you cannot buy N95 masks?

Here are some N95 masks alternatives you can buy or make yourself:

1. Buy R95 masks instead.

Image Source: Shopee

According to Major Safety, a blog associated with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration in the U.S., the difference between an N95 mask and an R95 mask is their resistance to oil-based particles.

It says in the blog, "Under the NIOSH classification system, 'N' rated respirators can only be used for particles that do not contain oils. But, 'R' rated respirators may be used in environments that contain oily particles."

So, R95 can definitely protect us against the ash coming from the Taal Volcano, and its only difference from the in-demand N95 is that it can also give protection from oil fumes.

R95 masks are available for sale online, in drug stores, and also in leading hardware stores. Prices range from around PhP50 each and up.

2. Disposable surgical face mask and 2 layers of facial tissue

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If the usual disposable surgical face mask is all you can get at the moment, you can improve its filtering ability by putting 2 plies or 2 layers of facial tissue between the mask and your face.

Make sure to use facial tissue, because other kinds of tissue may trigger allergic reactions.

3. Create a makeshift mask.

In case you cannot buy any kind of mask, you can create a temporary mask from unused fabrics at home. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

If you do not have a sewing machine or you don't know how to sew, then you can make this version of a makeshift mask by just using an old T-shirt and a pair of scissors.

4. Use a wet handkerchief or towel.

Image Source: wikiHow

If you have no time to make a temporary mask, you can simply wet a hanky or face towel and cover your nose and mouth with it.

This is a common fire safety tip they teach during seminars, and its main purpose is to reduce the smoke you inhale.

So, it's your best bet if the ashfall in your area is severe and you have no protective masks at hand.

Hope you found this list of N95 mask alternatives helpful and we pray for everyone's safety.

If you live near Taal Volcano, be vigilant and stay tuned for more updates. Stay safe, everyone.