Flood Awareness in Penn Township
Properties in Penn Township are subject to three problems: over bank flooding, local drainage and sewer backup. You could be faced with one, or all three of these hazards. If your property is in the mapped floodplain it could be subject to any of the above dangers.
Emergency Measures - No matter what type of building you have, some last minute measures may help. Move valuables (photos, antiques, and other “irreplaceable’s”) or other items that can be most damaged by floodwaters (furniture, mattresses etc.). Sandbags or plastic sheeting can be placed in front of doorways and other low point entries. Whatever emergency measures you plan to use, it is best to have a “written plan” in advance so you don’t forget anything when you learn of a flood warning.
Flood Warning System - Penn Township is provided with a 24-hour flood warning service from the Snyder Co. Emergency Management/911 that is connected to the National Weather Service River Forecast Center in State College and the Pa. Emergency Management Agency in Harrisburg. In the event of an emergency the public will be notified via the media.
Flood Protection Regulations – Penn Township Floodplain Ordinance was adopted in 2007. Check with the township before you build on, fill, alter, or regrade your property. A permit is needed to confirm such projects do not cause problems on other properties.
Substantial Improvement and Substantial Damage - If a house in the floodplain is flooded, has a fire, is hit by a tornado or is otherwise damaged so that the cost of repairs is more than 50% of the value of the building before the damage, the house must be elevated to the base flood level.
Drainage Maintenance - Township crews work to keep drainage ways open and free of debris. You can do your part by keeping your gutters clean, picking up trash and fallen branches on your property to prevent blockages. You may also call the Roadmaster to report any problems at 374-4258. Leave a message if necessary – all calls will be returned.
Flood Insurance - Penn Township participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). All local insurance agents can sell a NFIP (National Flood Insurance Policy). All agents must charge the same rates. The Federal government sets the rules and rates for these policies. Any property in the Township can be covered by a flood insurance policy. Don’t wait for the next flood to buy flood insurance; there is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Contact your insurance agent for more information.
Property Protection – Flood proofing a house means altering it so floodwaters will not cause damage. Different flood proofing techniques are appropriate for different types of buildings. The local library or the Township office has information with these guidelines.
Flood Safety -If there is a flood event, as a general rule, never walk, or try to drive around or through barriers of floodwaters. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths and more people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Stay clear of downed power lines and electrical wires, as electrocution is the number two flood killer. Report downed lines by calling 911. Be alert for gas leaks and remember carbon monoxide kills. Use a generator or other gas-powered equipment outside. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly and charcoal use must be outside. Look out for animals that have been flooded out of their homes and may try to seek shelter in yours. After a flood event be sure to look before you step. Ground and floors will be covered with all types of dangerous debris and can be very slippery. Anything that got wet must be thoroughly cleaned, because floodwaters pick up all types of sewage and chemicals. Discard all food, cosmetics, and medicine that have come in contact with floodwaters. Take care of yourself! Recovering from a flood is a huge job. It’s tough on the body and the spirit and the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time.
Natural and Beneficial Functions of Floodplains - include the following:
Storage of floodwaters/flood flow force or severity
Shallow infiltration to absorb overland flood flow
Groundwater recharge
Removal/filtering of excess nutrients, pollutants, and sediments from floodwaters
Habitat for flora and fauna
Recreational and aesthetic opportunities
Please contact the Township office if you have any questions - 570-374-4778 or bpenntownship@yahoo.com.