Parents are being urged to exercise caution when visiting public parks with their children after a recent investigation uncovered traces of contamination in multiple locations, including the 7th Brigade Park in Chermside.
David Pie, representing Australian Meth Alerts, conducted swab tests on various surfaces in the parks, including benches, tables, barbecues, toilets, and baby change tables across 15 parks in Queensland. Many of the parks surveyed featured playgrounds, raising concerns about children’s exposure to these substances.
Of the 15 parks, the 7th Brigade Park in Chermside resulted in a positive test for methamphetamine whilst eight others showed evidence of concerning traces. This means that there are no sufficient quantities to register a positive contamination reading.
One unsettling discovery was made at Aurora Boulevard Park in North Lakes, where traces were detected on a baby change table in a public toilet.
Mr Pie expressed his concerns, noting that his close friend frequently visits the Chermside park with his two-year-old child, highlighting the issue’s urgency. Exposure to such contamination can result in various health problems, including skin, eye, and respiratory irritation, dizziness, headaches, and insomnia.
This investigation comes on the heels of a Queensland family being forced to vacate their rental home due to extensive residue. The home in Sandstone Point exceeded the recommended safe level of contamination, according to the Clandestine Drug Laboratory Remediation Guidelines.
The Australian Drug Foundation distinguishes between homes where drugs were manufactured and those where they were used, stating that the latter does not pose a health risk. However, the potential health impact of contamination in public places remains uncertain.
Jackie Wright, an expert in second-hand exposure to such substances from Flinders University, suggested that the risk of exposure to residue in public places is likely similar to that in homes. She emphasised that while the presence of these substances in public places might be alarming, it doesn’t necessarily mean that individuals will be exposed to harmful levels.
To address concerns about exposure to contamination, David Pie encouraged individuals to contact him via info@methalerts.com.au or 0412 132 142 to inquire about testing kits.
Published 27-Sept-2023