Author: Nafis Nichols

In light of the effects of Hurricane Isaias on our region, Delaware County Emergency Services, along with neighboring counties that affected by flooding, havs been working with Voluntary Agencies Active in Disaster (VOAD) partners to establish the Hurricane Isaias Home Cleanup Hotline to support affected homeowners.

Residents should call 1-844-965-1386 (toll-free) to provide details about the extent of storm-related damages. The information will be shared with volunteers from local disaster relief organizations, community groups, and faith communities who may be able to help.

Call the Hurricane Isaias Home Cleanup Hotline if you need help with these types of services:

• Cutting fallen trees
• Removing affected drywall, flooring, and appliances
• Tarping roofs
• Mitigating mold

These services are performed by volunteers and will be provided at no cost to the resident. Service is not guaranteed, however. Resources are limited. After providing your information to the Hotline, you may be contacted by a representative from a participating organization who will determine if they are able to provide help.

The Hurricane Isaias Home Cleanup Hotline will remain open through Friday, August 28, 2020. Calls are answered by volunteers generally during business hours, but residents can call and leave a message at any time. A volunteer will return the call as soon as possible.

PLEASE NOTE: This Hotline does not provide help with social services such as food, clothing, and shelter. It also does not offer information about insurance, questions about FEMA assistance, or provide financial support. If you need assistance with concerns not related to cleaning your home, you can call 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211.

Delaware County Emergency Services has advised that multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms will affect the region through Friday night. The thunderstorms will be capable of producing locally heavy rain which could cause flash flooding, especially given that the ground remains saturated from recent heavy rainfall. Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms are also possible, but heavy rain will be the primary threat.
Locations affected: Northeastern Maryland, Delaware, southeastern Pennsylvania, and southern and central New Jersey.
Please stay out of floodwater and follow the tips below:

• Always follow warnings about flooded roads.
• Do not drive in flooded areas—cars or other vehicles will not protect you from floodwaters. They can be swept away or may stall in moving water.
• If you have to be in or near floodwater, wear a life jacket, especially if the water is rising.
• Wash your hands with soap and water if you have been in floodwater. If you do not have soap or water, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer. Floodwater can contain many things that may harm health, including germs, dangerous chemicals, human and livestock waste, wild or stray animals, downed power lines, and other contaminants that can make you sick.