PEMA Urges Citizen Preparedness Ahead of Hanna, Other Tropical Storm Systems

HARRISBURG, Pa., Sept. 5 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As all eyes along the
eastern seaboard remain locked on Tropical Storm Hanna, the Pennsylvania
Emergency Management Agency is reminding Pennsylvanians to prepare ahead of
time for disasters.

"Tropical Storm Hanna, along with the other storms currently in the Atlantic,
provides citizens across the state with a timely reminder to double-check or
create an emergency kit and emergency plan for themselves and their loved
ones," said PEMA Director Robert P. French. "September is National
Preparedness Month and the time to prepare for a disaster is before it
happens. Our message to citizens is to be informed, be prepared and be
involved."

According to the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Hanna could bring
heavy rain to much of eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania. While major
flooding is not anticipated, small creeks and streams could see rising levels
as the storm progresses.

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.

Strong winds from a tropical system could cause damage to homes and buildings
if items outside are not secured or taken indoors. This includes things like
lawn decorations, outdoor furniture, and boats and marine equipment, which can
become dangerous projectiles in a storm.

French also reminded residents to stay tuned to local broadcast radio and
television stations that are part of the Emergency Alert System to get
emergency messages, as weather systems can be unpredictable and storm
conditions can change rapidly.

Citizens can put together an emergency kit to be used in any disaster -- with
supplies to sustain each member of the household, including pets, for three
days -- using a duffel bag, small suitcase, or large plastic container. The
kit should include things like:

-- Battery-operated flashlight and radio, with extra batteries
-- One gallon of water per person per day
-- Essential medication and copies of prescriptions
-- First aid kit
-- Non-perishable food
-- Manual can opener
-- Cash, credit cards and important legal documents

Disaster preparations should also include creating a family emergency plan,
which should be reviewed with each family member on a regular basis. Establish
a meeting site within your neighborhood and outside the area. 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.

"Having a plan of action to put into effect during a disaster can go a long
way in helping people remain calm," French said. "Make your family emergency
plan and kit when the weather's nice, so that you know it's ready for the day
you might need it."

For more information about emergency preparedness in Pennsylvania, visit
www.PEMA.state.pa.us.

CONTACT: Ruth A. Myers
(717) 651-2009

SOURCE Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency

Ruth A. Myers of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency,
+1-717-651-2009