Please read the important announcement below from the Pennsylvania DEP!
DEP Advises Residents, Anglers to Avoid Sewage-Contaminated Tookany, Frankford Creeks in Montgomery County, Philadelphia: Ongoing Sewer Overflow Releasing Untreated Sewage into Creek
NORRISTOWN — The Department of Environmental Protection is warning residents and anglers to stay out of Tookany and Frankford creeks in Cheltenham Township, Montgomery County, as well as in the city of Philadelphia, because untreated sewage is overflowing from a sewer line into the waterways.
According to DEP’s southeast regional director, Joe Feola, the raw sewage creates a potentially severe public health hazard.
“The ongoing raw sewage discharge into these creeks is creating a public safety and health hazard, so we are advising area residents and anglers to stay away until the problem is corrected,” Feola said. “With warmer weather, creeks make an inviting playground for children, and we are concerned that people could be sickened by sewage contamination. We are also advising residents to not let pets drink from the stream.”
The sewage overflow began during recent wet weather. Cheltenham Township, which owns and operates the sewer line, has crews working to filter and chlorinate the discharge, but this temporary measure will not adequately treat the water and remove pathogens that could cause serious health concerns.
DEP is working with local officials and the county to reduce the flow and correct the problem.
For more information, visit www.depweb.state.pa.us.
CONTACT:
Neil Weaver, 717-787-1323
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Dept. of Environmental Protection
Commonwealth News Bureau
Room 308, Main Capitol Building
Harrisburg PA 17120
