EMERGENCY SERVICES RESPONDING TO QUEENSLAND FLOODS

As floods continue today throughout parts of Queensland, Emergency Services Minister Pat Purcell and Emergency Management Queensland (EMQ) Executive Director Frank Pagano have assured residents that the Department of Emergency Services (DES) is responding as the situation develops.

Mr Purcell said EMQ is working closely with local and district disaster management groups throughout the State to monitor the situation, and plans are in place to assist communities affected by the events as required.

“Disaster managers at all levels of government are closely watching the flood situation throughout Queensland, and staff and volunteers are ready to provide assistance to any local communities affected by rising waters.”

Mr Pagano said EMQ is already responding to the situation.

“EMQ has activated the State Disaster Coordination Centre, and deployed additional staff members into regional areas to support local disaster managers,” he said.

“SES and Queensland Fire and Rescue Service personnel on the ground have rescued several people who have become caught in flood waters, and SES volunteers have conducted door-knocks, manned road closures, and helped residents prepare their properties for rising waters.

“Sandbags are being distributed as required, and re-supply operations for communities cut off by flood waters are also continuing today.”

Mr Purcell said Emergency Services are also closely monitoring the development of a tropical low located in the Gulf of Carpentaria, which could develop into a cyclone in the next few days.

“In addition to the flooding situation, EMQ are also working closely with the Bureau of Meteorology and local governments in the Cape area to monitor the potential cyclone in the Arafura Sea,” he said.

“While current indications show the cyclone moving away from Queensland, communities in that area should be preparing their homes now in case the cyclone does impact on the Queensland coast.”

What to do when a cyclone approaches

· Listen to a local station on your portable radio for cyclone advice and warnings;

· Board windows, store loose items inside, lock up pets, and fuel car and place under cover;

· Check your emergency kit and put spare clothing and shoes in plastic bags;

· Switch off electricity and gas at supply points; and

· If advised to evacuate, lock your house, take your emergency kit and follow instructions from emergency personnel.

What to do when a cyclones strikes

· Stay inside and shelter in strongest part of the house (e.g. bathroom or cellar);

· Protect yourself with a mattress or blanket, and get under a strong table or bench; and

· Beware the calm ‘eye’. Remain indoors until advised that the cyclone has passed.

What to do after a cyclone has hit

· Don’t go outside until advised officially that the cyclone has passed;

· Listen to your radio for further information and advice;

· If you had to evacuate, don’t go home until advised. Use recommended routes; and

· Beware of fallen powerlines, damaged buildings, trees and flooded watercourses

Media contacts:

Minister’s Office: Tim Shipstone 07 3247 8194, 0409 620 571;
Daniel Landon 07 3247 8992, 0437 837 976.

Emergency Management Queensland media: 07 3109 7278