Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency News
PEMA Reminds Residents of the Potential for Spring and Summer Flash Floods
Residents urged to plan ahead to protect themselves from flooding
"By educating the public that
French said it is important for the public to understand the difference between a flash flood watch and a flash flood warning — each represents a different level of action to be taken.
A flash flood watch means that flooding may occur. Residents should stay alert and watch rivers and streams. If they rise — be prepared to move to high ground quickly.
A flash flood warning means that there is actual flooding. Residents should act at once and move to high ground.
"While every family should have an emergency plan, those living in flood-prone areas in particular need to be able to identify several evacuation routes, and a place for family members to meet in the event that they become separated during a flood," French said. "Families need to regularly discuss the plan with everyone in the household so that when an emergency occurs, everyone knows what to do and where to go."
Other flood preparedness tips include:
Ask your local or county emergency management office if you live in a flood prone area. Learn whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level and become familiar with the history of flooding for your region.
Learn flood-warning signs and your community alert signals to be better prepared for floods and flash floods. Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains.
Plan and practice an evacuation route. Contact your local emergency management office for a copy of your community's flood evacuation plan. This plan should include information on the safest routes to shelters. Individuals living in flash flood areas should have several alternative routes. Have disaster supplies on hand, including:
1. Flashlights and extra batteries 2. Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries 3. First aid kit and manual 4. Emergency food and water 5. Non-electric can opener 6. Essential medicines/prescriptions 7. Cash, credit cards and important legal documents 8. Sturdy shoes
Develop an emergency communication plan in the event that family members are separated from one another during floods or flash floods (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), and have a plan for getting back together.
Ask an out-of-town relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it is often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.
Make sure that all family members know how to respond before and after a flood or flash flood and teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, to request the police or fire department, and instruct them which broadcast television or radio stations carry emergency information provided through the Emergency Alert System.
Additional flood safety information can be found on PEMA's Web site at www.PEMA.state.pa.us.
CONTACT:
(717) 651-2009
SOURCE
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