Surviving the Storm- Surviving the Stress

Guest Blogger Tom Moriarty

Tropical storm Lee spread raging flood waters across large areas of PA leaving behind a path of physical destruction to roadways, damaged utilities, damaged or destroyed businesses and homes. Regretfully, some lives were lost and numerous people suffered injuries. Since the flood waters have receded, most victims are trying to get their lives back to normal by cleaning their residence of damaged property, making repairs and returning to daily routines.

Unfortunately, as disaster survivors struggle to rebuild their lives, they are usually unaware of the emotional devastation and intense stress they are experiencing. To fully recover, victims must look after their own mental health and that of their loved ones. Children who have experienced a disaster are especially vulnerable.

No one who experiences a disaster is left untouched by it. Most people do not believe they may need mental health services after a disaster. Individual emotional recovery is difficult while a community remains in shreds and victims’ lives are basically out of control.

Witnessing massive destruction of a disaster, such as recent flooding, can cause feelings of anxiety, anger, grief, hopelessness, sadness and loss of control. In addition to seeing the destruction, injury to self or others, loss of loved ones, fear for life until rescued can all be emotionally traumatic experiences. While all these reactions are normal, they usually will subside within five weeks. Remember, each person will react differently. Should someone you know becomes overwhelmed and depressed that they are talking about self-harm, get them emergency medical attention.

Disasters an be traumatic for individuals because they are outside the usual range of human experiences. Survivors can be overwhelmed by the loss of control over most parts of their lives following a disaster. Therefore, it is extremely important to manage your stress and trauma and that of your loved ones. Be willing to discuss your feelings with shelter staff. They are well trained to help you with concerns and needs.

Stress, Mental Health and Coping

To help reduce high levels of disaster stress, have an emergency plan. Being caught unprepared does not help when you lose access to food, water and electricity. If you are evacuated to a shelter or rescued from danger, you may be taken to a Red Cross shelter. While going to a shelter can be very stressful, the Red Cross can help you and your family to start to regain control over your life.

People Most At Risk

 Those with mental health issues such as addictions
 Serious medical conditions
 Those who lost a loved one or pet
 Injury to self
 Lose of home and treasured possessions
 Uncertain about future/sense of isolation and hopelessness

Helping Children

Children are easily frightened by disasters. Children who are separated from parents must be reunited as soon as possible. Often very young children regress in their behavior. They will cry a lot, cling to adults and have difficulty sleeping. Older children can get headaches, body aches and become disobedient or socially withdrawn.

Actions to help children:

 Assure your children they are safe
 Listen to their fears and worries
 Let them express feelings and fears
 Correct misunderstandings
 Show patience

Helping Yourself to Cope

The recent “historical flooding” that caused many evacuations and rescues from danger placed significant levels of stress on thousands of victims. As soon as you and your family are physically safe, start to take control of your life. Get information on the following issues:

 What is still happening with the disaster?
 What is being done to help people?
 What helping services are available?
 Learn about health care services including mental health services.

Obtaining the above information will help you to regain that sense of control over your life. Develop a plan and set priorities, locate financial resources to repair damage and replace property losses. If you have lost employment, apply for unemployment.

Assistance with all your physical and emotional needs can be obtained at a Disaster Recover Center (DRC) established in disaster impacted communities.

Fortunately, emotional reactions to a disaster are usually temporary and do not imply a serious mental health problem. If after an average time of five weeks, your stress reactions do not improve, contact your county mental health agency for additional assistance.


- Guest Blogger Tom Moriarty is a group crisis intervention instructor for the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation and a disaster mental health consultant for Franklin County and Fulton County. Tom is also a consultant for the Pennsylvania State Police Critical Incident Stress Debriefing Team.

Can the Disaster Recovery Center Help Me?

Last Friday I had the opportunity to check out the recently opened FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) that has been established in Cumberland County. In my 5 years with DPS, we've never had a DRC opened in our county, so I, like many people in our area didn't know what exactly happened at a disaster recovery center. I figured it was just a few folks from FEMA with paperwork available to apply for assistance! I do not often say these words folks but, I was wrong!

We pulled up the DRC to see a very large RV with the Homeland Security Seal displayed on it and several satellites pointed to the sky and obviously operational. This is was one of FEMA's mobile DRC's, utilized to get out DRC up and running! As we entered the DRC it was a buzz with activity and I was overwhelmed by the amount of services available to residents! I scanned the room and saw representatives from the Red Cross, Unemployment, PA Department of Health, Small Business Association, Public Assistance, PennDOT, Tax Assistance, Department of Environmental Protection, FEMA and so many more! The true purpose of a DRC is to be one stop shopping for those trying to recover after a disaster. If you have questions about recovery you can't find answer to, the DRC is for you! If you need help finding temporary housing, the DRC is for you! If you lost your license in the flood and need a new one, the DRC is for you! Need a low interest loan to help in your recovery efforts, the DRC is for you! Bottom line, if you were affected by the flood, THE DRC IS FOR YOU!

My first DRC experience was an impressive and one I won't soon forget! There are so many folks there working hard to help you get back on your feet! I encourage anyone who needs help or some simple guidance in their recovery efforts to stop by the DRC!

-Megan Silverstrim
Cumberland County DPS


Listed below are a few of the key details regarding the DRC in Cumberland County!

Cumberland County Disaster Recovery Center
West Enola Fire Company
118 Chester Road, Enola

Schedule
September 27th - 10am- 7pm
September 28th - 10am- 7pm
September 29th - 10am- 7pm
September 30th - 10am- 7pm
*The DRC will remain open beyond these dates if residents continue to attend and utilize the center. We will announce additional dates as they are needed and scheduled.


- The DRC is a resource for anyone (renters, homeowners, business owners) who has been affected by the flood that resulted from Tropical Storm Lee and is seeking information or assistance.

- No appointment is required, though attendees can pre-register in an effort to make their experience much more time efficient. Those wishing to pre-register can do so by contacting FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those who have a speech disability or hearing loss & use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362.

- Attendees are required to have some form of identification and their social security number available upon arrival. All other forms and documents will be provided at the DRC.

- Representatives from PEMA and FEMA will be present at the DRC. PennDOT officials will also be on hand to reissue driver’s licenses to individuals who may have lost or had their license destroyed in the flood.

Disaster Recovery Center

Cumberland County Disaster Recovery Center
West Enola Fire Company
118 Chester Road, Enola

Schedule
September 23rd - 1pm-7pm
September 24th - 10am- 7pm
September 25th - 10am- 7pm
September 26th - 10am- 7pm
September 27th - 10am- 7pm
September 28th - 10am- 7pm
September 29th - 10am- 7pm
September 30th - 10am- 7pm
*The DRC will remain open beyond these dates if residents continue to attend and utilize the center. We will announce additional dates as they are needed and scheduled.


- The DRC is a resource for anyone who has been affected by the flood that resulted from Tropical Storm Lee and is seeking information or assistance.

- No appointment is required, though attendees can pre-register in an effort to make their experience much more time efficient. Those wishing to pre-register can do so by contacting FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Those who have a speech disability or hearing loss & use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362.

- Attendees are required to have some form of identification and their social security number available upon arrival. All other forms and documents will be provided at the DRC.

- Representatives from PEMA and FEMA will be present at the DRC. PennDOT officials will also be on hand to reissue driver’s licenses to individuals who may have lost or had their license destroyed in the flood.

Business Preparedness- Don't Become A Statistic

Aeneas Internet and Telephone

In 2003 Aeneas Internet and Telephone of Jackson, Tennessee saw their office building destroyed by an F4 tornado. The photos above show what was left of their home office. They suffered $1 million loss in hardware and software that day. Most businesses would not have survived such devastation. Not only did Aeneas survive, but within 72 hours of the catastrophic tornado, Aeneas was operating and fully serving their clients again! Their building may have been destroyed, but their business was not, because they had a plan.

Nearly 40% of businesses do not survive a disaster or emergency. That's an alarming number, but one we can change! Having and utilizing a business disaster plan protects your investment, your workforce, the community you service and your local economy! So why not take a few simple steps to prepare!

Business preparedness, like many things is something we could go on forever about, but for the sake of our blog readers, we'll try to just cover the basics today! A great place to start when diving into the world of business preparedness is the creation of a planning team! Be sure to include workers from all levels of your organization, especially those that conduct tasks that are vital to daily operations. Once you have formed your team, it is time for a brief risk assessment. Your team will need to research what types of threats exist in your area. These risks can be both natural and man made. Once you have determined your risks, brainstorm on how they may impact your organization.

Now that you have determined the risks, it's time for a conversation on continuity planning. What is continuity planning? Simply put, its a plan that lays out how your organization will continue to operate and provide goods and services to your customers during and after a disaster has affected you. So what do you need to consider when looking at continuity planning?

- Determine which staff, materials, equipment and facilities are essential to your operations. While we may be quick to think everything is essential, there are items and staff that you may be able to function without for a short period.

- Make plans for emergency payroll, expedition of financial decisions and purchases.

- Create a succession of management plan as some of your workforce may be impacted by the disaster in such a manner that they cannot report to work.

- Maintain copies of important documents and records and store them at an alternate location in case your primaries are destroyed.

- Maintain a list of important customers and discuss ways to continue to serve them in the event of a disaster.

- ID key suppliers, shippers, and other resources you interact with. Develop relationships within several of these areas in case your normal supplier cannot service you needs.

If you've gotten this far in a business plan, you're doing great, but there are a few more things to consider. A business plan is no good if the staff doesn't know what the plan is when disaster strikes. Regular training sessions on your plan is crucial to it's success. Plans are evolving documents that may change frequently as staff, technology and threats change, making frequent training a necessity to keep them up to date. As part of your disaster plan training, also consider taking a day to cross train employees on other essential task. This creates a level of redundancy and ensures there will always be someone available and knowledgeable enough to keep your business running! Also consider offering first aid and CPR training for employees as these are skills that can save lives everyday or during a disaster!

Though most of us hate to admit it, we probably spend as much, if not more time at work that we do at home! So the likelihood of a disaster occurring while you're at work is pretty good. That being said, you could be stranded at your workplace for days, which is why you should keep an emergency supply kit on hand for your staff. Consider stockpiling items such as flashlights, a NOAA weather radio, non-perishable foods, water, blankets and a first aid kit. Encourage employees to keep a personal needs kit at work which may contain necessary medications, sanitary items and cash.

How will you communicate with employees during a disaster? A disaster communications plan will address how you will communicate with employees and customers during and after a disaster. When communicating with your workforce figure out how you will keep them informed of closures, relocation or safety information. Should they expect an email, a phone call or a text? Who is making contact to the employees? These are all important things to discuss. It is important to stay in touch with your clients before, during and after a disaster too! Before a disaster, make sure your clients know your committed to serving them and have a plan in place that will allow you to serve them through a disaster or within a short period after. During and after a disaster, keep your customer base up to date on the status of your organization and it's services. If you are shut down temporarily let them know how your recovery efforts are going and when you return to business.

We're almost done rambling about business preparedness, we promise! The final point we want to discuss is just that, open discussions and coordination with other organizations! Talk to other businesses in your area or businesses similar to yours to see what type of plans they have in place. Talk to your local emergency management agency, fire department, EMS department and police department to see what types of tips they can offer you. It's also a good idea to inform them of your plan! The final group we suggest you have some very open and honest discussions with is your insurance provide. Discuss your coverage, options to increase coverage and what steps you should take before and after a disaster.

There you have it! A quick snapshot of business preparedness! Want to learn more? Cumberland County DPS offers FREE programs to businesses and organizations on business preparedness! If you are interested in hosting a program contact Megan with DPS at mmoriarty@ccpa.net or 717.218.2913.

(Photos from www.ready.gov)

Preparedness for Military Families

We at Cumberland County are very thankful and appreciative for all of our service men and woman serving our country abroad and at home. With several military installations in our county and the surrounding counties, we realize there are special considerations that military families need to take when it comes to preparing for disasters. We value these folks in our community and want to make sure they, like the rest of our residents have all the information they need to prepare properly for an emergency. We have listed a few suggestions which deal specially with emergency preparedness and regular relocations, deployments and other unique situations impacting military families.

At Home

- When you relocate be sure to learn the types of emergencies that likely affect your new home and what types of planning and response is required by your family.

- Learn evacuation routes for your new home.

- Learn about mass warning systems for your new home. Many municipalities are utilizing alerting systems that can email, call and text users. Research what is available and sign up!

- When creating an emergency plan and communications plan, consider that a family member may be deployed when an emergency occurs and that may alter your plan.

- When preparing items (personal and financial) for deployment, make copies and place them in your emergency kit.

- If you live off of base/post remember that you may not be able to access it during an emergency and plan accordingly.


Serving Abroad

- Learn the number for the Public Safety Answer Point (PSAP), it is most likely not 9-1-1.

- Learn the types of emergencies that are likely to affect you while serving abroad.

- Include your passport, birth abroad certificates, and cash in local currency, electrical current converter and translation book in your emergency kit.

- Follow the instructions of host county emergency officials during a disaster.


If you are a service member new to the area and are seeking any of the information we posted about in this blog do not hesitate to contact our office for assistance! Thanks to all of those who have served in the past and those who are currently serving our nation!

A Flu Review...

As we navigate through National Preparedness month we also entering into that dreaded time of year we call flu season! Whether the threat of a pandemic exists or it’s just your average flu virus, flu season is disruptive and can be dangerous. Unfortunately when most people are thinking preparedness they aren’t thinking about flu season! So today we want to discuss what we can do to prepare for the flu…this includes pandemic or just regular pesky flu season.

Let’s talk pandemics! At the start of the H1N1 pandemic, we were faced with eager learners and preparers ready to take steps to protect themselves. While H1N1 was a pandemic by definition, it was a rather mild one and left many people with one word in their mind. Overreaction! But experts didn’t overreact, because the potential existed for a major pandemic and still does! So we cannot become complacent!

Pandemic flues are a naturally occurring thing that have been plaguing humans for centuries and it was only within the last century that we began to truly understand the phenomenon! Flu viruses are always changing/mutating; in fact every flu season we are facing viruses that are genetically different than the year before. A pandemic occurs when there is a drastic mutation that creates a virus that we have never been exposed to and have little or no immunity to.

We know pandemics can be dangerous to our health, but few people take the time to think about the wide spread effect it will have on our society. If a major pandemic were to occur, it is estimated that 40% of the work place would be out of commission. They may be sick, taking care of sick family members or just afraid to go to work. Could your workplace operate with almost half of its employees missing? Businesses will be shut down, hospitals will be overwhelmed, government services will be interrupted, schools will be closed and that’s just the start!

Now that we’ve painted a brief snapshot of life during a major pandemic, let’s talk about three simple steps you can take to prepare.
1. Create an emergency supply kit! Hopefully you already have one at home, and you just need to add a few items for it to be pandemic ready. Add extra fever suppressants, face masks, hand sanitizer and a thermometer. This kit will allow you to stay home and avoid public areas if the need should arise and will also allow you to take care of sick family members.
2. Promote Healthy Habits! Encourage hand washing. Hand sanitizer is great, but should never replace good old fashioned soap and water! Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds. Make sure you get between fingers, under jewelry and under nails! Forget that childhood lesson of covering your cough or sneeze with your hand! That just aids in the spread of germs! Instead, cough or sneeze in your sleeve! Social distancing is key as well. This means avoiding social situations that expose you to the sick and keeping your distance (3-4 feet) when out and about to avoid germs.
3. Create a family plan! Review medical and contact information, decided who will stay home with sick kids, consider preexisting health conditions, etc.

These 3 steps will not only help you during a pandemic but during regular flu season! And while we could go on forever about the flu, we will leave you with one more vital piece of the flu puzzle! Whether it’s regular flu season or a pandemic, BE A CONSIDERATE FLU PATIENT! If you’re sick, stay home! While every flu virus is different, plan on staying home for at least 24 hours after your fever subsides without the aid of a fever suppressant! Stopping and slowing the spread of a virus is our best defense! Your coworkers, friends and the Center for Disease Control thank you in advance!


Check out this link to test your Flu IQ!
http://flu.gov/individualfamily/about/index.html#fluquiz

After the Flood...Mold

Even after dangerous flood waters recede, there are still many health and safety risks we need to consider! One of those potential health risks, mold! Damp conditions caused by flooding are ideal for mold growth! Mold growth can happen quickly, sometimes as soon as two days after a flood occurs.

While we encounter mold on a daily basis, it is present in larger amounts after flooding and these larger amounts can cause allergic reactions, asthmatic reactions, infections and many other respiratory issues. Infants, children, the elderly, those with compromised immune systems, allergies, respiratory illnesses and pregnant women are especially at risk.

The way to combat mold is to clean and removing the cause. The PA Department of Health offers these tips.

1. Identify and correct the moisture source. Then clean, disinfect, and dry the moldy area. Keep the area well ventilated and dispose of anything that has moldy residue, such as rags, paper, leaves or debris.

2. Porous materials can trap molds. Items such as paper, rags, wallboard, ceiling tiles, sheetrock, carpeting and rotten wood should be removed.

3. Wear protective gloves, such as rubber dishwashing gloves and a mask when working with moldy materials.

4. Carpeting can be a difficult problem. Drying does not remove the dead mold spores. If there is heavy mold in the carpet, the best course of action may be to throw it away. If the area was flooded, remove sheetrock to at least 12 inches above high water mark. Allow area to dry for two to three days before replacing damaged materials.

5. Use non-ammonia soap or detergent, or a commercial cleaner in hot water. Scrub the entire affected area thoroughly using a stiff brush or cleaning pad, then rinse with clean water.

6. After thoroughly cleaning and rinsing, disinfect the area with a solution of no more than one cup of bleach in one gallon of water. NEVER mix bleach with ammonia- the fumes are toxic! Allow areas you are disinfecting to dry naturally overnight to kill all molds.

For more information on cleaning up after the flood visit www.health.state.pa.us!

Cumberland County Receives Federal Disaster Declaration

The release at the link below announces that Pennsylvania, including Cumberland County has been declared a disaster for PA! This declaration makes Cumberland County residents and business owners eligible to apply for federal assitance as they recover and rebuild!


http://www.fema.gov/news/newsrelease.fema?id=57901


Per the release "Register for assitance online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov/, by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Disaster assistance applicants, who have a speech disability or hearing loss & use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice."

After the Flood...Beware of Fraud

Disasters like we've just experienced recently in our area can bring out the best in people! There's often an overwhelming amount of generous people stepping up to lend a hand to their neighbors! Unfortunately a disaster can also bring out the worst in people and we also see an increase in fraud!

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you may recover or seek a way to help others recover!

1. Avoid contractor scams and anyone who may knock on your door offering to help with your clean up and claims.

2. Beware of charity scams!

3. Be wary of high pressure tactics and door to door solicitations!

4. Write checks directly to charities, do not give cash!

5. To check if a charity is registered in PA call the Department of State's Bureau of Charitable Organizations at 1-800-732-0999 or visit www.dos.state.pa.us and click on charities!

After the Flood...Homeowners/Flood Insurance

Here are some important tips on navigating your insurance after flooding!

1. Call your company as soon as you can once you access your home. Document all conversations you have with your insurance company.

2. Take pictures of your damage and secure problems so that no further damage occurs. Securing your property is important as insurance companies do not want to see $5,000 claims turn into $10,000 claims! DO NOT make permanent repairs though until your carrier says you can!

3. Keep all receipts and financial records you incur during cleanup.

4. Avoid contractor scams. Be sure to get more than 1 bid and ask for references. Ask for proof of licenses, building permits, insurance and bonding. Never pay up front for the entire job.

5. Flood damage to your vehicle is covered under auto insurance if you have comprehensive coverage!

After the flood...damage assessment...

The flood waters have receded and it is now time to begin the recovery and rebuilding phase for those affected by the destructive flood waters that swept our area. Many people are left with questions, wondering where they start and where they can turn for help! We hope to provide some answers to you over the next week and help you recovery and rebuild as quickly as possible!

The most important thing for homeowners, business owners and renters to do right now is report damage to their local municipalities. Even if you are not seeking government assistance because you have insurance, it is still important to report for several reasons! While we have local, state and federal officials out in the streets assessing the situation, they can’t be everywhere and see everything, so anything you can report is helpful! Your reports will help us grasp the severity of the damage in our county. Your damage reports are also an imperative to area when it comes to securing a potential disaster declaration and receiving financial assistance. Your local municipality will compile damage reports and send them on to DPS. We will send reports to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA), and PEMA will in turn pass on the information to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as part of a request for a federal disaster declaration. As you go through the recovery phase make sure you photograph and document all damage. Also be sure to save receipts and financial records of all costs you incur during cleanup and rebuilding.

According to the PEMA “If a disaster declaration that includes Individual Assistance (IA) is issued, the Federal Emergency Management Agency will staff disaster recovery centers (DRC) in the counties included in the IA declaration. DRCs are one-stop shopping for citizens, where they can get information on every available federal resource in order to recover from the flooding.”

Reporting to your local municipality does not automatically register you for any future assistance. We will keep you posted as we progress through the damage assessment and recovery phase. If we receive a declaration and assistance, we will be sure to post more info on what you need to do to register and apply!

After the Flood....

As many people are anxiously awaiting the time when they can return to their homes after recent evacuations and flooding, it is important to start formulating a plan for your return. Your safety should be your first concern and here are a few tips!

Traveling Home
1. Do not return home before you are told it is safe to. Flood waters are unpredictable and continue to rise and fall for some time.
2. Be aware of fallen tree limbs, downed power lines, and weakened walls, bridges and roadways when traveling home.
3. Be wary of wildlife and other animals.

Checking the Exterior of Your Home
1. Look for structural damage or cracks.
2. Look for broken water or gas lines (Do not enter the home if any are discovered).
3. Look for and avoid loose power lines and report downed lines to your utility company.

Entering Your Home
1. If you smell gas, leave immediately and advise your gas company .
2. Remember there may be dangerous chemicals and sewage that have entered your home during the flood, so use caution.
3. If the house does not seem structurally sound, leave immediately.


Hidden Dangers in a Flooded Home
1. Mold- mold can be a hidden danger and you may need to consider hire a professional cleaning service to remove it.
2. Mud left in your home can contain dangerous chemicals and sewage
3. Floods can cause structural damage to homes and may damage your electrical systems. You should have a professional check both.
4. Check with local officials to make sure drinking water has not been contaminated.


For more detailed information on recovering and rebuilding after a flood visit this FEMA site...


http://www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/coping.shtm

Corrected Road Closures...

East Pennsboro Township
Creekside Drive, Magaro Road to Center Street,
Brentwater Road, Foxcroft North to Dead End,
Acri Meadow Road, Acri Drive to Dead End,
Acri Meadow Road, Magaro Road to Acri Drive, Advisory Evacuation
Oyster Mill Road, Bridge Road to Dead End,
Oyster Mill Road, Bridge Road to Country Club Road,
Creek Road,
Lutheran Street (West Fairview),
2nd Street (West Fairview), 11/15 to North, Advisory Evacuation
Market Street (West Fairview), Front to 2nd,
Center Street, 1501-1523, Advisory Evacuation

Lemoyne
Market closed at Third

Upper Frankford Township
Potato RD


Wormleysburg
Market Street Bridge & Elm to Third
Front Street Elm to Bottleneck

New Cumberland Borough
Bridge Street from 7th street to Iron Bridge (Borough Line)
7th Street/Bridge Street east
2nd Street Eutaw Avenue east and south to Borough line
Eutaw Avenue south to Borough Line

Road Closure Update

East Pennsboro Township
Creekside Drive, Magaro Road to Center Street,
Brentwater Road, Foxcroft North to Dead End,
Acri Meadow Road, Acri Drive to Dead End,
Acri Meadow Road, Magaro Road to Acri Drive, Advisory Evacuation
Oyster Mill Road, Bridge Road to Dead End,
Oyster Mill Road, Bridge Road to Country Club Road,
Creek Road,
Lutheran Street (West Fairview),
2nd Street (West Fairview), 11/15 to North, Advisory Evacuation
Market Street (West Fairview), Front to 2nd,
Center Street, 1501-1523, Advisory Evacuation

Hampden Township
Erbs Bridge RD closed from Sporting Hill to Terrace DR
Good Hope RD
Prowell DR

Lemoyne
Market closed at Third

Upper Allen Township
McCormick RD

Upper Frankford Township
Potato RD

Cumberland County Declares Disaster Emergency

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT: Megan Silverstrim
717.218.2804


Cumberland County Declares a Disaster Emergency

Cumberland County, PA- The Cumberland County Board of Commissioners has signed a Disaster Emergency Declaration for Cumberland County. This declaration is pursuant to the provisions of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code.

This declaration authorizes the Cumberland County Emergency Management Coordinator to take all appropriate actions needed to effectively mitigate and respond to the current disaster situation. This declaration also allows Cumberland County Officials to purchase needed supplies, employ temporary workers and enter into contracts and agreements with vendors without the “time- consuming procedures and formalities normally prescribed by law”.

Cumberland County is experiencing historic flooding as the Susquehanna continues to rise as the result of excessive rain from Tropical Depression Lee. Several municipalities including East Pennsboro Township, New Cumberland Borough and Silver Spring Township have recommended evacuations of residents living in and around the river and local creeks. Stay tuned to media reports for continued weather and flooding updates as well as shelter information. Cumberland County Department of Public Safety will also be posting updates via Facebook (www.facebook.com/cumberlandcountydps) and Twitter (ccpa_net_dps911).


# # #

Tips for Evacuation

If you are evacuating your home here are a few things to consider...

1. Shut off your electric and natural gas
2. Move valuables to a higher location in your home
3. Take a change of clothes and prescription medications with you as you may not be able to return home for several days
4. When evacuating, do not drive through flooded areas! TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN
5. Take with you or secure important documents (birth certificates, insurance policies, passports etc.)
6. Have cash with you.
7. Photo ID
8. If evacuating to a shelter, you will need to leave pets at home. Secure them in the home with ample food and water. Place a notice on your door advising the pets are inside.

East Pennsboro Adisory Evacuations

Advisory Evacuations by 5 pm 9/8/2011
River Road Overview Bridge to County Line

Front Street (West Fairview) Point Park to 670

Creekside Drive Magaro to Center Closed

Brentwater Road Foxcroft North to Dead End Closed

Acri Meadow Road Acri Drive to Dead End Closed

Acri Meadow Road Magaro to Acri Drive

Oyster Mill Road Bridge Road to Dead End Closed

Oyster Mill Road Bridge Road to Country Club Closed

Erford Road West Glenwood to East Dulles
Creek Road

Lutheran Street (West Fairview) North to South Closed

2nd Street (West Fairview) 11+15 to North
Market Street (West Fairview)
Front to 2nd Closed
Center Street 1501-1523

Road Closure Update

East Pennsboro Township

Creekside DR between Magaro RD & Center St
River RD
Front ST (West Fairview)
Oyster Mill RD
Brentwater RD north to Center ST

Hampden Township

Erbs Bridge RD closed from Sporting Hill to Terrace DR
Good Hope RD
Prowell DR

Lower Allen Township

4900 block of Gettysburg RD
2000 block of Sheepford RD to the Cumberland/York County line
1713 to 1752 Sheepford RD closed to thru traffic
100 and 200 block of Creekwood RD/Winding Way is closed at Glenside Landing
Lisburn RD at McCormick RD

Middlesex Township

Clemson DR between N Middlesex RD and Wolf’s Bridge RD
Sherwood DR between Bernheisel Bridge RD and Appaloosa WY
Sherwood DR between Bernheisel Bridge RD and Deer LN
Wertzville RD between Sherwood DR and N Middlesex RD
Wolf’s Bridge RD at Clemson DR

Silver Spring Township

Willow Mill Park RD
Beechcliff DR north to Greenridge
Wertzville RD between Sherwood DR and Bernheisel Bridge RD

South Middleton Township

Petersburg RD between Park DR and Old York RD
Petersburg RD at the South Mountain Dragstrip
Lerew RD between Park DR and Old York RD
Ladnor LN

Upper Allen Township

McCormick RD

Upper Frankford Township

Potato RD

Upper Mifflin Township

Whiskey Run RD

West Pennsboro Township

Creek RD

Road Closure Update

Hampden
Erbs Bridge Rd closed from Sporting Hill to Terrace Dr.
Lower Allen Twp
100 and 200 Blk of Creekwood Rd Winding way is closed at Glenside lane to stop traffic.
1713 to 1752 Sheepford Rd closed to thur traffic
2000 Blk of Sheepford Rd to the county line
4900 Block of Gettysburg Rd
Lower Mifflin Twp
Creekview Rd
Middlesex Twp
Clemson Dr b/t N Middlesex Rd and Wolf's Bridge Rd
Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Appaloosa Wy
Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Deer Ln
Wertzville Rd b/t Sherwood Dr and N Middlesex Rd
Wolf's Bridge Rd @ Clemson
Silver Spring Twp
Beach Cliff Drive North of Greenridge
Wertzville to Sherwood
Willow Mill Park Rd
South Middleton
Ladner Ln closed with barricades
Lerew Rd Closed with barricades
Petersburg Rd Closed with barricades
Upper Frankford Twp
Potato Rd
Upper Mifflin Twp
Whiskey Run Rd
West Pennsboro Twp
Creek Rd
East Pennsboro Twp
River Rd., Front St (West Fairview), Oyster Mill Rd, Brentwater Rd. N. of Foxcroft Dr.

East Pennsboro Residents Urged to Evacuate

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT: Megan Silverstrim
717.218.2804


Residents in East Pennsboro Township Urged to Evacuate Due to Historic Flooding

Cumberland County, PA- As rain continues to fall across the state, Cumberland County is warning residents to expect historic flooding not seen in this area since Hurricane Eloise in 1975. Flooding is already occurring in many areas causing road closures and some evacuations.

East Pennsboro Township and Cumberland County officials are urging residents in East Pennsboro Township in the area of the Susquehanna River from Front Street at River Point to the 500 block of Front Street and River Road at the Overview Bridge to the Township line. This voluntary evacuation is to commence beginning at 10:00 AM September 8, 2011. The river has reached flood stage and is forecasted to crest at levels that may cause major flooding and impede travel as roads may become impassable rather quickly. Since you may not be able to return to your home until flood waters recede, evacuees should take important documents and possessions with them, as well as a change of clothing and medications.

Stay tuned to media reports for continued weather and flooding updates as well as shelter information. Cumberland County Department of Public Safety will also be posting updates via Facebook (www.facebook.com/cumberlandcountydps) and Twitter (ccpa_net_dps911).


# # #

Road Closure Update

Lower Allen Twp 4900 Block of Gettysburg Rd
Lower Allen Twp 2000 Blk of Sheepford Rd to the county line
Lower Allen Twp 1713 to 1752 Sheepford Rd closed to thur traffic
Lower Allen Twp 100 & 200 Blk of Creekwood Rd Winding way is closed at

Lower Mifflin Twp Creekview Rd

Middlesex Twp Clemson Dr b/t N Middlesex Rd and Wolf's Bridge Rd
Middlesex Twp Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Appaloosa Wy
Middlesex Twp Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Deer Ln
Middlesex Twp Wertzville Rd b/t Sherwood Dr and N Middlesex Rd
Middlesex Twp Wolf's Bridge Rd @ Clemson

Silver Spring Twp Willow Mill Park Rd
Silver Spring Twp Beach Cliff Drive North of Greenridge
Silver Spring Twp Wertzville to Sherwood

South Middleton Petersburg Rd
South Middleton Larew Rd
South Middleton Ladner Ln
Upper Frankford Twp Potato Rd

Upper Mifflin Twp Whiskey Run Rd

West Pennsboro Twp Creek Rd

Shelter In Place for White Rock Acres Residents

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT: Megan Silverstrim
717.218.2804


White Rock Acres Residents Told to Shelter In Place

Cumberland County, PA- Cumberland County Officials are urging residents in the White Rock Acres development in Monroe Township to prepare to shelter in place as roads in that area may become impassable by tomorrow morning. Shelter in place means that there may be dangerous conditions outside and it is best to stay where you are.

Flood waters may take some time to recede, so residents are advised stock up on important medications, nonperishable food items and water. A three day supply is the recommended amount of provisions for such emergencies.


Stay tuned to media reports for continued weather and flooding updates as well as safety information. Cumberland County Department of Public Safety will also be posting updates via Facebook (www.facebook.com/cumberlandcountydps) and Twitter (ccpa_net_dps911).


# # #

Silver Spring Evacuation Media Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 7, 2011

MEDIA CONTACT: Megan Silverstrim
717.218.2804


Residents in Silver Spring Township Urged to Evacuate Due to Historic Flooding

Cumberland County, PA- As rain continues to fall across the state, Cumberland County is warning residents to expect historic flooding not seen in this area since Hurricane Eloise in 1975. Flooding is already occurring in many areas causing road closures and some evacuations.

Silver Spring Township and Cumberland County officials are urging residents in Silver Spring Township in the area of the Conodoguinet Creek to evacuate as the creek has reached flood stage of 8 feet and is forecasted to crest at 12 feet. Prompt evacuation is key as roads may become impassable rather quickly. As you may not be able to return to your home until flood waters recede, evacuees should take important documents and possessions with them, as well as a change of clothing and medications.

Stay tuned to media reports for continued weather and flooding updates as well as shelter information. Cumberland County Department of Public Safety will also be posting updates via Facebook (www.facebook.com/cumberlandcountydps) and Twitter (ccpa_net_dps911).


# # #

Current Road Closure List

Lower Allen Twp - 4900 Block of Gettysburg Rd
Lower Mifflin Twp - Creekview Rd

Middlesex Twp - Clemson Dr b/t N Middlesex Rd and Wolf's Bridge Rd
Middlesex Twp - Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Appaloosa Wy
Middlesex Twp - Sherwood Dr b/t Bernheisel Bridge Rd and Deer Ln
Middlesex Twp - Wertzville Rd b/t Sherwood Dr and N Middlesex Rd
Middlesex Twp - Wolf's Bridge Rd @ Clemson

Silver Spring Twp - Willow Mill Park Rd
Silver Spring Twp - Beach Cliff Drive North of Greenridge
Silver Spring Twp - Wertzville to Sherwood

South Middleton - Petersburg Rd Closed with barricades
South Middleton - Larew Rd Closed with barricades
South Middleton - Ladner Ln closed with barricades

Upper Frankford Twp- Potato Rd

Upper Mifflin Twp - Whiskey Run Rd

West Pennsboro Twp - Creek Rd

Social Media and Emergency Communications Plans

One of the many important steps families and businesses can take to protect themselves during a disaster, is to have a pre-established communications plan. For families, this plan will lay out who members are to contact to check in if they become separated from the family. This is often a friend or family member who lives out of the area, as local phone lines may be experiencing issues after a disaster. For businesses, this communications plan addresses how the employer will keep in touch with the employee and the customer. Relaying important information like relocation, change of hours and operating status are important before, during and after a disaster is important. The communications plans should also address how employees will report their status and condition after a disaster to the employer as well.

While communications plans of old often revolved around phone numbers, today they should include social media. The emergency management world is seeing a drastic increase in the use of sites such as Facebook and Twitter as a means to report disaster conditions to family members and friends. People can instantly post or Tweet that they are safe, their location and inquire about friends or family. Just as easily businesses can utilize these sites to communicate! So when you sit down with your family or co-workers, don’t forget to add a social media section to that communications plan!

Pets Need Plans Too!

Do you have an emergency plan for your pets? They can’t plan for themselves, so it’s up to you! There are a few simple things you can do to ensure your pets safety in the event of a disaster!

Did you know most disaster shelters do not allow you to bring pets (services animals are the exception)? So what will you do with your pet if you have to quickly evacuate? If you must leave your pet at home as you and your family evacuate, securely place some type of notification on your front door that advises emergency services personnel that your pet is inside. The ASPCA offers free notification stickers online (http://www.aspca.org/about-us/free-aspca-stuff/free-pet-safety-pack.aspx). Leave a supple of food and fresh water for your pet.

Make sure pets are properly tagged or chipped in the event that they get lost during a disaster. If you evacuate make sure to take all of their tag information and a photo of your pet with you.

When creating an emergency supply kit for you to use at home or to take with you in the event you evacuate to a private home or hotel, do not for get to include supplies for your special pet.
- Food
- Water
- Bowls
- Medications
- Toys
- Garbage bag for waste
- Leash or carrier
- Little and litter box for cats

Your pets are an important part of your family and by following the simple guidelines above you can protect them in the event of a disaster or emergency!