When storms and other unmanageable forces of nature overwhelm both home plumbing systems as well as municipal sewer systems, safety is a concern.

Recreation Safety

Swimming and bathing are not permitted in Philadelphia’s rivers or streams outside of organized events (e.g., races, triathlons, etc.), due to risks of drowning, injury from submerged objects, strong currents, and other hazards. The risks of primary contact with the water are the same for humans and pets alike. Strong currents, drowning, and unseen objects such as fishhooks or glass fragments are a threat to even the best of swimmers. Bacteria and pathogen contamination are also a concern when people are in primary contact with the water during recreational activities. Levels of bacteria can increase after storm events, which stormwater washes into Philadelphia’s streams and rivers.

River/Creek Flooding

When precipitation falls for an extended period of time at a faster rate than it can naturally infiltrate the ground or drain into the sewer system, flooding typically occurs. Our area's rivers and creeks swell as their capacity is exceeded and adjacent land reaches its saturation limit. Additionally, stress on subsurface building foundations results as water pressure from the saturated soil applies lateral forces to the walls and resistance from underneath slabs. Basement flooding is one unfortunate consequence of river and creek flooding.