Flood victims who wish to take advantage of free water well testing kits should contact the Department of Environmental Protection’s regional offices prior to September 8.

The department began providing the free kits after the June floods to homeowners with a private well system to ensure they have access to safe drinking water.

The department also will continue to offer free pumping and removal services for flooded or damaged home heating oil tanks in affected areas. Residents or local officials who call before September 8 can make an appointment for DEP staff and a contractor to come to the home for cleanup.

Proper handling of home heating oil is essential to prevent soil and groundwater contamination that could linger long after flood waters recede.

Individuals with questions or concerns about the test kits or cleanup should contact the Department of Environmental Protection regional office in the area: Southeast Regional Office, 484-250-5900; Northeast Regional Office, 570-826-2511; Southcentral Regional Office, 717-705-4741; Northcentral Regional Office, 570-327-3636; Southwest Regional Office, 412-442-4000; or Northwest Regional Office, 814-332-6945.

For copies of the fact sheet and more flood recovery information on re-entering and cleaning homes and businesses, cleaning up home heating oil, reporting spills and other environmental emergencies, contact the nearest DEP regional office or visit DEP’s Flood Recovery webpage.

9/1/2006