Pennsylvania Residents Told to Prepare for Floods

03/11/2010

Melting snow along the East Coast may lead to flooding in many states, including Pennsylvania.

With this in mind, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency has offered advice for residents living near flood plains. The first step they should take is to relocate any valuables from lower to higher levels of their property. They should also be prepared to live inside their home for several days by preparing an emergency kit with nonperishable food, water, essential medicines, flashlights and first aid materials.

It is also important for individuals to avoid driving in flood water and to contact their municipal emergency management office if they require assistance.

"Melting snow and rainwater from those neighboring states will be coming our way and will likely impact residents and businesses here," PEMA director Robert French said. "In some areas, the impact could be significant."

Damage from flooding is covered under standard auto insurance policies. Those who experience damage to their homes will need flood insurance offered through the National Flood Insurance Program. Such policies take 30 days to be effective and can cover up to $250,000 in damage to structure of the home and $100,000 in damages to its contents.

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