Drain Safety
You should be aware that entering stormwater drains is both dangerous and illegal.
Drains carry rainwater from our streets to our rivers, creeks and bays. With no warning at all, a drain can become a very dangerous place. Anyone entering a drain faces the threat of a sudden rise in water levels, lack of oxygen and the presence of dangerous fumes.
Drain hazards:
- Water levels can rise even in sunny dry conditions
- Rainwater falling many kilometres away can flow downstream, arriving suddenly and unexpectedly
- Slow moving flows can quickly become raging torrents.
Warning signs are in place at possible entry points to drains around Melbourne. It is not possible to cover all drains with grilles to prevent illegal entry as such barriers would restrict water flows, resulting in a build-up of litter and debris which could cause flooding.
Flash flooding is not the only danger associated with entering a drain. Poisonous gases and lack of oxygen are unseen but deadly hazards. They may be present at any time and remain undetected until it is too late.
Drains are dark, wet and slippery. They may contain steep hidden declines, making it is easy to slip and fall, and it is also difficult for others to hear you call for help if you're injured. Entering a drain could cost your life and place others at risk rescuing you. Trespassing in a drain is against the law, which means you could also face a hefty fine.