Pennsylvania Citizens Urged to Watch for Possible Spring Flooding as Temps Rise

HARRISBURG, Pa., March 13, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As temperatures rise and forecasts call for rain this weekend, state officials are urging citizens to keep an eye on local waterways for possible flooding over the next several weeks.

"Our concern at this point is for ice jam flooding, because that's harder, if not nearly impossible, to predict," said Richard D. Flinn, Jr., director of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency. "But we know that Pennsylvania is one of the most flood-prone states in the country, and we need to be vigilant not only until snow and ice are gone, but also throughout the spring and summer."

Flinn said families should take the time to create an emergency plan and build an emergency kit for their homes and cars using resources available online at www.ReadyPA.org. The website includes free downloadable family plan templates and emergency kit checklists.

Flinn also said it is important for the public to understand the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning because each represents a different level of action to be taken.

• A flood watch means that flooding may occur. Residents should stay alert and watch rivers and streams, and be prepared to move to high ground quickly.
• A flood warning means that there is actual flooding. Residents should act at once and move to high ground.

"Motorists should also be aware that driving around safety warning signs and entering a flooded roadway could cost you up to $250 and points on your driving record and penalties are higher if emergency responders need to come out to rescue you," Flinn said.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is also reminding residents of the dangers of coming into contact with floodwaters.

"We are asking everyone to avoid coming in contact with floodwater," said Acting Secretary of Health Dr. Karen Murphy. "Floodwaters can be toxic because they might contain sewage, hazardous chemicals or sharp objects like glass or metal fragments. Coming into contact with floodwaters can cause gastrointestinal disease, injuries, and infections, which is why it's best to avoid them if at all possible."

If you have to clean up your home or property after a flood, follow these tips to stay healthy and safe:

• Keep children and pets out of the affected area(s) until cleanup is completed.
• Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with hot water and laundry or dish detergent.
• Do not allow children to play with any toys that have been contaminated by floodwater until the items have been thoroughly disinfected.
• Wash hands frequently and always before meals.
• If you have open wounds or sores, cover them with a waterproof bandage if possible.
• Keep open wounds clean by washing well with soap and clean water.

More information on how to stay healthy during and after a flood is available at www.health.pa.gov.

Media contact: Cory Angell, PEMA, 717-651-2169
Penny Ickes, Health, 717-787-1783

SOURCE Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency; Pennsylvania Department of Health