As locals go back to their homes in North Queensland after flooding, general safety is at the forefront of people’s minds. Plumbing checks are being urged by Master Plumber’s Association of Queensland (MPAQ) and they are asking people to adhere to health and safety checks in their homes, with plumbing checks being a high priority.

“Checking the properties plumbing, drainage, gas and fixtures needs to be a priority after such events if disease and public health are to be safeguarded,” says MPAQ president Kent Vickers. “I would urge people now facing the daunting task of a post-flood clean up to pay particular attention to those key plumbing issues that can impact on health.”

Kent suggested contacting Master Plumber or a licensed plumbing company to check drainage or septic overflows, silted or blocked drains, gas regulators and burners on appliances such as hot water systems, ovens and barbecues, which could be wet and blocked with silt, gas bottles that may have floated or moved with flood waters causing leaks in the gas system and valves exposed to floodwaters. Tank water and other alternate water systems should also be checked.

Kent says residents will also need to be wary of downpipes that are connected to underground storm water drains that might be blocked with silt. Any further rain may overflow from the gutters as the water can’t drain out.

Kent says, “Water tanks that have had flood water enter the tank will not be fit for consumption and need to be checked for contamination levels. This is especially important where tank water is the drinking water supply or supplying other fixtures in the house.”

Parents should be wary of letting kids play in flooded drains, waterways, or puddles of flood water that may be left in yards.

“Flood water is dangerous; it is not only often fast moving but it could contain sewerage surcharge and other contaminates including E.coli,” says Kent.

If you need to replace plumbing fixtures and/or fittings in rooms or behind wall sheeting because of damage, people should be aware that all plumbing work will need to be done by a licensed plumber. Beware of scammers posing as plumbers in the wake of the flood.

Residents and home owners can contact MPAQ from Monday to Friday on 07 3273 0800 to locate a licensed Master Plumber in their area or ask any questions. Visit www.mpaq.com.au/find-a-plumber.