Fire Service urges caution with roads still impacted by flooding
We're being warned of hidden dangers of flooded roads and the strain rescues are placing on resources
Dave Adamson, Territorial Group Manager for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, urges caution and preparedness when facing flooded roads and pathways, particularly following recent severe weather.
Offering safety advice, Dave emphasizes avoiding driving through standing water due to potential hazards beneath and potential vehicle damage.
He said, "Don't drive through standing water, there may be hazards under the water that you can't see."
He added that it's equally important is adhering to road closure signs to prevent becoming stranded and causing unnecessary resource strain.
If we must drive through shallow floodwater, Dave advises reduced speed when travelling floodwater to prevent creating disruptive bow waves impacting nearby properties.
Pedestrians are likewise cautioned against entering flooded areas, with Adamson noting the risks flowing water poses, recommending alternative routes and online resources like the Met Office Hazard Manager for predictions.
A growing challenge
In recent years, Dave notes shifts in climate conditions have led to more frequent flooding incidents, with Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue attending 14 classified external source flooding incidents and nine vehicle rescues this year already.
He added that earlier this year, there was a 48 hour period where the Service received 40 calls regarding flood issues, with crews responding to 30 of them.
These responses often strain limited resources, impacting availability for other emergencies like fires.
Dave stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary call-outs to keep resources available for serious emergencies.
"Our resources are geographically located all across Dorset and Wiltshire. Ideally we don't want them tied up in incidents where the public could avoid calling us out if necessary," he said.
Dave is also urging us to pre-plan for potential floods by monitoring weather forecasts and water levels, safeguarding valuables and developing an evacuation plan.
He advises contacting emergency services if encountering immediate or life-threatening situations.