Important Information about the 2005 Flood Season from Senator Robbins

Last year's flood season was one of the most destructive in history. By the end of 2004, nearly 40,000 Pennsylvanian's had applied for Federal Relief. Despite this relief, many lost their homes and businesses and some will never be restored to their pre-flood conditions.

After last year's devastation, the National Weather Service is also predicting another difficult flood season in Pennsylvania. Before another disaster strikes, I encourage you to learn more about your risk, what to do to protect property, before, during, and after a flood, and how to purchase flood insurance by contacting the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at 1-800-427 2419 or online at www.floodsmart.gov

A troubling statistic from the NFIP suggests that some 87% of flood prone areas are not currently covered by flood insurance and most, if not all, home insurance policies do not cover damage due to flooding.

You can also obtain information about flood insurance and disaster preparedness by contacting the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance toll free at 1-877-881-6388 or visiting their website at www.insurance.state.pa.us for online brochures about flood insurance and what to do if there is a disaster.