If it’s flooded, forget it
Every year people are hurt or die trying to cross or play in flooded waterways. It can happen anywhere – roads, creeks, dams, parks or backyards.
All Queenslanders should be aware of the dangers around floodwater or swift flowing water. When things go wrong, rescuers are required to put their lives at risk to save others.
Never enter floodwaters and discourage others from doing so.
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Do not walk or play in floodwaters
Fast flowing water hides all sorts of dangers including slippery surfaces, uneven ground, strong currents, fences, vehicles, rocks, long grass, tree branches, sewage, chemicals, sharp objects and electrical current.
In some circumstances the force of fast flowing water can be multiplied many times. Things like metal drains and grilles beneath the water can generate very strong currents and quickly trap a person.
Even near the water’s edge the slope of the ground, slippery surface or currents can cause a person to lose their footing. Everyone should stay three meters back from the waterline. Keep a close eye on children.
Water at ankle height can cause you to lose your footing and once you have slipped, it can be very hard to get back out.
Storm drains
In urban areas large volumes of fast flowing water can come and go in minutes, easily sucking or trapping anyone who gets too close to drains, pipes or grills.
Entrances to drains, pipes and grills are not a place to play. They are slippery, have strong pulling power and are very hard to get out of.
Dams and weirs
Flooded dams and weirs are dangerous places to play – especially around outlets or spillways where turbulence can sweep a person off their feet and pin them under churning water.
Don’t drive into floodwater
Many people who drown or need rescuing have either deliberately driven into floodwater or taken their vehicles into a potentially dangerous situation.
Drivers should be aware of causeways or storm water run-off areas. These areas should avoided in your neighbourhood or places you are visiting?
Never drive through floodwaters - find an alternative route or wait until the water level drops.
Water deeper than the bottom of your door is enough to float your vehicle away or splash the engine, causing it to stall. Even gentle moving floodwater can wash away the road surface underneath. Speeding through water can cause loss of traction and aqua-plaining. It will also increase the chance of stalling a vehicles engine.
Travelling in flood-prone areas
Summer months bring rain, cyclones and unstable weather conditions to Queensland. Plan ahead so you’re not caught by quickly changing extreme weather. Monitor local media and speak to locals so you know what conditions are forecast?
Avoid driving in potentially bad weather.
If you’re on holiday, or even just making a day trip, take into account potential rises in water levels and plan your travel so you don’t become stranded. Take note of warning signs that tell of local dangers.
Carry maps and remember the names of local roads and landmarks so you can tell rescuers where you are. Make sure you have fresh batteries in torches, portable radios and up-to-date first aid kits.
If you become trapped
If you become trapped, stay calm. Phone Triple Zero (000) or ask or signal others to call for your rescue.
If you’re in an isolated area, rescuers may take some time to reach you, so be patient. If you are caught in a vehicle, stay there until help arrives, the water level goes down or a safe escape is possible.
Don’t enter the water if it can be avoided and stop others from entering it. Even fully-equipped swiftwater technicians will only enter the water as a last resort.
If possible, use a tree branch, rope or similar tools to reach the isolated person.
If you are trying to help rescue someone in swift or flood water, use extreme caution and never enter the water, the best way to help is to monitor the person and report to emergency services.
Listen to rescue authorities who are trained professionals and follow their instructions. Learn CPR so you can save the life of someone in trouble.
Rope rescue
Take care if using rope to rescue someone as the fast flowing water can force the person being rescued further under the water.
Rescuers should not tie themselves to a rope, as they too could be pulled into the water. Instead, find a solid structure to use as an anchor.
Contacts
For road conditions and closures visit the Department of Transport and Main Roads
You can also telephone:
- 1300 130 595 for 24-hour state-wide road reports.
- 13 19 40 for road conditions for Brisbane Metropolitan, Gold and Sunshine Coasts areas only.
www.bom.gov.au (weather forecasts and warnings)
Last updated November 2011
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