Residents linked to Seqwater’s dam release warning subscription service or public safety app, can stay updated on dam releases across the authority’s 26 dams, recreation closures and water supply levels.
Seqwater Chief Executive Officer, Neil Brennan, said the service was another way for people to be better prepared ahead of Queensland’s traditional storm season.
“We of course still work with local governments to keep communities informed when dam releases are occurring, as well as via announcements on our social media and website channels,” Mr Brennan said.
“This service is simply another way to make sure people are informed when water is being released upstream to help them stay safe.
Mr Brennan said while the weather in South East Queensland was always unpredictable, the Bureau of Meteorology had forecast the 2021 storm season to bring higher than average rainfall.
The announcement was made in line with Get Ready Queensland Week, which runs from 10-17 October 2021 and is a call to action for all Queenslanders to prepare their homes and communities for the severe weather season.
“We’re encouraging the community to take the time this week to sign up to Seqwater’s dam notification service and public safety app, particularly those living downstream from a dam,” Mr Brennan said.
“The services use an Early Warning Network (EWN) geographic notification and information system (GNIS) to send notifications, providing real-time safety alerts to subscribers.”
The dam notification sends alerts when dam releases are occurring or un-gated dams are spilling, or have stopped spilling.
Subscribers can choose to receive notifications about any of Seqwater’s dams by email, text message or recorded message to telephone landline.
The Seqwater public safety app, available to download to all smart phones, provides the latest recreation notices and safety alerts.
“The app is an easy-to-use tool that anyone can access on-the-go. Users can search for things to do at Seqwater recreation sites, receive safety notifications about our lakes and quickly access a list of emergency contacts,” Mr Brennan said.
“The safety of our team and visitors at our lakes is always our first priority – remember to ‘play it safe’ at Seqwater's recreation areas and always be mindful of others.”
For more information about Get Ready Queensland Week, visit www.getready.qld.gov.au.
To register for Seqwater’s Dam Release Notification service or app, visit www.seqwater.com.au/dam-release-information-service. Existing subscribers can update their details or the dams selected for water release notifications at any time.
