Flood danger community awareness campaign

The State Government is reminding Queenslanders to be careful around floodwaters by launching a public awareness campaign.

Emergency Services Minister Neil Roberts said recent heavy rain has led to flash and dangerous flooding in many communities.

"A lot of Queenslanders have not seen floodwaters like this in their communities for many years or ever before," Mr Roberts said.

"The loss of a young Queenslander’s life yesterday was a tragedy. The thoughts of all Queenslanders are with his family and friends."

The public awareness campaign, which was used in wake of flooding in parts of Queensland in 2004, aimed to remind residents not to drive, swim or wade in floodwaters.

"As the campaign states – ‘Floods can happen in a flash. Stay safe: never drive in floodwaters, never swim or wade in floodwaters and follow official instructions’," Mr Roberts said.

The Department of Emergency Services is contacting media outlets across south-east Queensland today to negotiate the broadcast and publication of the prepared advertisements. The Department will be also discussing the use of the advertisements as community service announcements.

"As Minister, I would like to reiterate my thanks to media outlets for their regular and informative updates throughout the flooding situation across Queensland this month. Media outlets have also publicised the State Emergency Service (SES) Hotline 132 500, encouraging people who need assistance to call the Hotline for help. I thank them for that," he said.

Copies of the "Flood" awareness print and radio advertisements to be used as part of the campaign can be found at www.disaster.qld.gov.au/disasters/campaign.asp

7 February 2008
Media contact: Kirby Anderson 0418 197 350