SAFETY ALERT
MUSHROOMS GROWING ON SCHOOL GROUNDS
 

Persistent wet weather has caused significant growth of mushrooms and fungi on school grounds. If children ingest mushrooms found in the playground this may be very dangerous.

 The issue

Persistent wet weather has provided ideal growing conditions for mushrooms and fungi. Different species of mushrooms are very difficult to identify and if consumed, can cause serious illness or death.
 
What do schools need to do?

Schools need to ensure they have established a system for monitoring school grounds for mushroom and fungi growth. Such monitoring can be included in the Daily Yard Checks conducted by BSO’s and supported by teachers whilst on playground duty.
 
What to do with mushrooms if they are found

Mushrooms should be picked using gloved hands or a gardening implement. Mushrooms should be placed into a plastic bag to prevent spores from spreading, then disposed into the garbage. Wash your hands and any tools which have come into contact with the mushroom.
Remove wild mushrooms before mowing, as mowing over mushrooms can spread them further.
 
Mushrooms growing on public land near the school

Mushroom growth on adjacent land should be reported to Access Canberra on 13 22 81

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can include stomach pains, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms may occur 6-24 hours after ingestion. In the case of Death Cap Mushrooms symptoms may subside for 1-2 days giving the impression of recovery however liver failure and death may occur.
 
What to do in the event of a confirmed or suspected consumption of a wild mushroom

If poisoning is suspected, an Ambulance or immediate attendance at the Hospital Emergency Department is required. Further information and advice can be sought by calling the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

WATER SAFETY DURING STORMS
 

As Canberra continues to experience above average rainfall, the risk of flash flooding in our waterways is increased. Children and young people should be reminded to stay away from stormwater drains and pipes in the local areas and should be educated about the dangers of stormwater.

 

The issue

Stormwater drains and systems are dangerous and unpredictable during dry times however, the risks significantly increase after high rainfall. It is timely that we remind children and young people of the dangers associated with playing in or near in stormwater drains.

Stormwater risks

Children or young people playing around or near stormwater systems are at risk at any time in dry or wet weather.

Stormwater drains can be open channels and usually have no fencing, meaning they are easily accessible to children and young people.

Dangers and risks exist due to:

• Water in the drains rising quickly and unexpectedly, even when it’s not raining in the local area.
• Challenges related to children and young people exiting a stormwater drain quickly, if needed.
• Shallow water being powerful and could knock a child or young person over.
• Slippery surfaces due to slime build up increases risk of slips and falls.
• Drains can contain pollution like debris, dangerous chemicals, and dangerous bacteria.

Storm education and water safety

Educating children and young people about the dangers of accessing or playing in and around Canberra’s urban waterway systems is vital.

Schools are encouraged to discuss water safety and stormwater dangers with students, particularly as Canberra experiences unusually high volume of rainfall. Parents should also be reminded through the school newsletter to talk with their children about the risks.

If stormwater blockages or overflow are an issue at or near your school

As heavy rains and debris place extra burden on the stormwater network, blockages and overflow can occur which can present danger to people and damage to property. If you see issues with the stormwater network at or near your school, call Access Canberra on 13 22 81 to arrange an inspection.

In a stormwater emergency

Call ACT Police on 000