Remember, if it's flooded forget it

The message could not be clearer – if it’s flooded, forget it.

However, many Queenslanders risk their lives by attempting to drive through flooded roads.

State Government research revealed 29% of all Queensland drivers had risked driving on flooded roads.

That figure was significantly higher among men, with 36% admitting to having driven through floodwaters compared with 22% of women. Alarmingly, 40% of drivers aged 18-24 said they had taken the risk.

Four-wheel-drive owners had a false sense of security because of their bigger vehicles, with 40% saying they had driven through floodwaters.

The reality is drivers of four-wheel-drives are as much at risk as drivers of any vehicle.

Water deeper than the bottom of your car door is enough to float your vehicle away or splash the engine and cause it to stall.

Floodwaters also hide road washouts and submerged objects which can cause vehicles to become stuck in floodwaters or wash away. Once your vehicle starts floating there is nothing you can do.

Reasons drivers gave for driving through floodwaters included not knowing any other routes, following a vehicle in front, wanting to get to family on the other side, and driving on flooded roads was just being part of living in Queensland.

Safety messages

• Take heed of road closure signage.
• Do not remove a “road closed” sign.
• Know that the water may be deeper than you think.
• Know that submerged objects can damage your vehicle.
• Plan your trips and routes: up-to-date information on the road network including incidents and closures is available by phoning 13 19 40 or visiting the RACQ Road Conditions or www.131940.qld.gov.au websites.
• Plan alternative routes.
• Pack food and drinks to sit it out.
• Check the weather forecast before leaving.
• Call triple zero (000) and ask for the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services if you are caught, or you see someone caught, in a flooded waterway.

Click here for more information from Queensland Fire and Emergency Services.