Never drive, ride walk or play in floodwater

The major cause of death during floods is by people entering floodwater. This includes driving, riding and walking through floodwater and children playing in floodwater.

The NSW SES advises people to NEVER enter floodwater.

Floodwater may be deeper and faster flowing than it appears and often contains hidden snags and debris.

A 'road closed' or a 'road flooded' sign means that road is unsafe to travel on. Find alternate ways which are free from floodwater or wait until the all clear is given for that road. It is safer to turn around than to enter floodwater.

If you come across a flooded road which has no 'road closed' or 'road flooded sign', it is still unsafe to travel through.

If it's Flooded, Forget it

Floodwater can also erode and wash away road surfaces leaving deep holes and uneven surfaces which cannot be seen.

In areas prone to flash flooding, leaving low-lying areas (homes and businesses) well before flash flooding begins (evacuation), is the best action to take, but only if it is safe to do so . If you are trapped by rising floodwater, seek refuge in the highest part of a sturdy building. Stay there and call 000 (triple zero) if you need rescuing.

Playing in Floodwater

During and after flood events, we often see images in the media of children playing in floodwater - swimming, riding boogie boards, riding through and jumping into floodwater. This activity is highly dangerous and there have been deaths of children due to playing in floodwater.

Storm Drains

In some areas, large volumes of fast flowing water can come and go very quickly, sucking in or trapping anyone who gets close to drains, pipes or grills. These places are dangerous to play near when flooding. They can be slippery, have strong pulling power and can be very hard to get out of.

Dams and Weirs

Flooded dams and weirs are dangerous places to play, especially around outlets, overflows and spillways where churning water can knock people off their feet and pin them underwater.

Visit the Queensland Fire and Rescue Service  to view the  'If it's flooded, forget it' page and the Community Service Announcement about driving through floodwater.