Alice Springs Police wish to urge locals to be safe and not to swim in dangerous water ways following a number of rescues in the area.

Alice Springs Watch Commander Paula Dooley-McDonnell said people need to stay out of the river at times like this.

"Police and members of the public have been involved in a number of rescue efforts today, assisting people that came into trouble when swimming in the Todd River.

"One incident involved a male floating down the river between causeways who had to be assisted by a police member entering the river. Other people have been utilising tyre tubes and other floatation devices.

"Parents also need to keep an eye on their children as the temptation for them to join their friends swimming or wandering too close to the waters edge could result in dire consequences.

"I know it is a novelty to have the Todd flowing, but I need to reiterate to the public just how dangerous this sort of behaviour is. Not only does the water flow faster than it appears, there is often debris just under the water surface that could trap you in a matter of moments" she said.


Media contact:

Amy Sloan

0417 770686