6.30 pm Wednesday 16 February 2011
The Department of Health has issued urgent advice for people in the Top End to exercise a high level of caution around flooded waterways, including creeks, recreational areas and roads.
"The simple message is to treat all floodwaters as potentially contaminated, particularly with sewage and other potential dangers, such as sharp objects, submerged holes and various hazards," Environmental Health Director Xavier Schobben said this afternoon.
"In recent flood situations in other states we have seen significant injuries, even death, resulting from people venturing into floodwaters, and we don't want anything like that to happen in the NT. What hasn't been as well publicised are the less dramatic injuries which have led to people requiring hospital treatment, and often suffering significant, long term injuries.
"All people, especially children, should keep away from floodwaters and avoid all unnecessary contact with mud. If adults must enter floodwaters, wear solid shoes, preferably gum boots, not thongs or bare feet, and check the depth and current with a stick.
"Be careful around drains, culverts and any water source more than knee deep. Floodwaters can be very deceptive, and once you get into trouble, especially if you're alone, rescue can be very difficult and extremely risky. We're talking about potentially fatal consequences."
Mr Schobben advised people to always wear gloves when handling flood-affected items or mud, and to be particularly mindful about fallen powerlines, damaged trees and flooded creeks.
Media Contact: Robin Osborne, Media Director, NT Department of Health, 0488 692 781
