The Queensland Police Service (QPS) has teamed up with Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) and Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) with one important message ahead of storm season: if it’s flooded, forget it.
QPS Darling Downs District Acting Superintendent Danny Shaw said Southern Queensland had tragic history with dynamic and deadly weather and a common-sense approach would save lives.
“Unfortunately, we’ve been taught by tragedy that floods can occur almost anywhere at anytime. Rising over days, or in minutes causing a ‘flash flood’ emergency event,” Acting Superintendent Shaw said.
“Already this year, in the Darling Downs District six people have needlessly lost their lives in flood waters -an innumerable and unfathomable loss for their loved ones left behind.
“Ahead of this storm season, police and emergency services are reminding the public that your safety is your responsibility. There is no excuse for residents who ignore warnings and deliberately enter floodwater.”
Acting Superintendent Shaw warned of the deceptively deadly nature of floodwater, urging residents not to put themselves in harm’s way.
“Once you’ve become stuck in rising floodwaters, whether accidental or otherwise, you’ve only got between 30 and 90 seconds to get yourself out,” he said.
“Windows don’t always operate if the vehicle is submerged, and the pressure of the rising water actually stops the car doors from opening.
“If you’re able to get out, you’re dealing with powerful currents and hidden debris as you attempt to swim to safety.
“Tragedy really can strike in an instant and even shallow water can be powerful enough to sweep your car away in a matter of seconds.”
“When faced with floodwater, the bravest and smartest thing you can do is back it up.”
QFES South West Assistant Commissioner Jason Lawler said despite the expert training and vast experience of the service, swift water rescues remained a dangerous environment for technicians.
“Your safety is your responsibility. There is no excuse for residents who ignore warnings and deliberately enter floodwater,” Assistant Commissioner Lawler said.
“Even highly trained swiftwater rescue technicians will only enter fast-moving water to save life in an emergency situation due to the significant risks.”
QAS Darling Downs Darling Downs and South West Region, Toowoomba Station Officer in Charge, Peter Baron said flood safety is a whole of community responsibility.
“Emergency services will always be there for the community in their time of need, but we are relying on the community to be safe and not take any chances,” Peter said.
“It’s important to remember if you get trapped in flood waters, it’s not just your life in danger but the emergency service personnel who are then tasked to save you.
“We have seen too many unnecessary deaths attributed to flood waters, so let’s work together this year so we can all make it home safe.”
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