Staying safe around floodwaters and after the waters have subsided.
Here is a resource from Qld Health stay-safe
Healthy Land and Water has provided the following information
Did you know during heavy rainfall events, sewers can overflow into stormwater pipes and subsequently into our waterways? When stormwater makes its way into waterways, it can carry disease-causing microorganisms such as debris, hazardous waste, animal waste, and in some cases sewage.
So even though it might seem fun to splash around, it is important to avoid recreating in or near floodwater and stormwater drains. It is also important after large rainfall events to wait before swimming in beaches, bays, estuaries, lakes, and rivers.
When you’re visiting your local waterways, look out for indicators of pollution before entering the water, including discoloured or strong-smelling water and floating litter, scum, and debris.
Pollutants can impact your health, with young people, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems most at risk. Make sure the water is clean before you enter!
You can also assist in gathering information about the recent floods by
Being part of their rapid recovery response: Upload local photos into the Healthy Land and Water smart flood impact tool
Healthy Land & Water is coordinating a rapid flood recovery response following the devastating extreme rainfall event across South East Queensland. They have developed a smart online form to capture local information to better understand the current flood impact to natural areas and project sites across SEQ.
This is a simple way for people to add local photos and information into the rapid assessment. The form is easy to complete – just a few fields and the opportunity to upload a photo. To provide information you can click here.
This will enable them to build a picture, even before floodwaters recede. Getting as much information into this tool as quickly as possible will help when it comes to disaster recovery assessment and applications. It will help highlight the level of impact in each area and what rectification may be required.
They will map and assess the damage over the coming weeks and report back. During these times, your first priority remains squarely on matters of life and livelihood. Make sure you stay safe – only get photos of impact if it is safe to do so.