Head of the Polres Kuningan Traffic Unit, AKP Aktuin Moniharapon, and the distribution of protective masks to the public by the Polres of Kuningan.

progresifjaya.co.id, KUNINGAN – As a proactive measure to anticipate the spread of volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau, the Polres of Kuningan took swift action by distributing thousands of free masks to the public in Kuningan Regency, West Java, on Sunday, September 6, 2026.

This social outreach and health mitigation initiative was centered at four strategic locations, Cirendang Park, the Cijoho intersection, the Citamba intersection, and the Kuningan City Park area.

At the Citamba intersection, the mask distribution was led by the Deputy Police Chief (Wakapolres) and the Head of Operations (Kabag Ops) alongside their personnel. Meanwhile, at the Cijoho intersection, the activity was led by the Head of the Traffic Unit (Kasat Lantas), AKP Aktuin Moniharapon, together with the Head of the Registration and Identification Unit (Kanit Regident) and other officers.

At the City Park Post, the distribution was led by the Head of the Narcotics Unit (Kasat Narkoba) and his team, while the activity at Cirendang Park was led by the Head of the Criminal Investigation Unit (Kasat Reskrim) and his personnel.

Polres of Kuningan Head of Traffic, AKP Aktuin stated, that the mask distribution represents the Polri’s concern for the community and serves as an effort to anticipate health issues caused by exposure to volcanic ash.

“We urge the public, especially road users, to remain vigilant and wear masks when engaging in outdoor activities. Public safety and health are our priorities,” said AKP Aktuin.

He further explained, that the mask distribution was a preventive measure to protect residents’ respiratory tracts from potential health problems caused by wind-borne volcanic dust.

Consequently, he advised vulnerable groups—such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and residents with a history of respiratory ailments—to exercise extra caution and limit outdoor mobility if air quality deteriorates.

During this initiative, the Polres of Kuningan also provided self-mitigation health guidelines to the public. The guidelines are as follows:

1. Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Masks: Always wear a mask properly when engaging in activities outside the home.

2. Home Protection: Tightly close windows and doors to prevent ash particles from entering the home.

3. Personal Hygiene: Immediately wash hands, clean the face with running water, and change clothes after outdoor activities.

4. First Aid for Eye Irritation: If eyes are exposed to ash, do not rub them; instead, rinse immediately with clean water.

5. Immediate Medical Attention: Residents experiencing persistent symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, or a sore throat are urged to seek medical attention at the nearest health facility.

Furthermore, AKP Aktuin urged residents to be discerning when filtering information and to avoid spreading false news (hoaxes) regarding the eruption.

“The most important thing is to safeguard our collective health and safety. Stay calm, wear masks, limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor, and follow information and advisories from official agencies,” he added. (Bembo)