Leave signs alone: council
PEOPLE are urged not to touch road signs in the wake of recent flooding.
South Gippsland Shire Council issued the plea last week, after rushing to install signs to warn of water over roads.
As water receded, council spokesperson Jeannie Hicks reported several instances where “well meaning members of the community” removed flood warning signs to indicate the road was safe to travel.
These signs should only be removed by council staff, Ms Hicks said.
“Although the water may have receded, there could be damage to the road surface, and unsuspecting drivers, following those who have removed the signs, could be confronted with unforeseen dangerous hazards that capable of causing serious accidents,” she said.
“Council does not formally re-open a road until it has had a post flood inspection.
“We appreciate that this can be frustrating for those who have been inconvenienced, but our priority is community safety.”
Information on road openings and closures for both state and council roads can be accessed from the Vic Roads website 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Along with the SES, we urge motorists to not drive through any flood waters,” Ms Hicks said.
“The waste of resources, time and effort when someone is caught in flood water means that other lives can also be put at risk.
“These officers and volunteers are working in treacherous conditions, often in the dark and have in many cases given up their personal time and plans at a moment’s notice to assist the community.
“Respect of the above protocol will mean their jobs safer and easier.”
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