Vehicle water rescues have increased with firefighters called to 34 separate incidents last year where people needed assistance getting out of their car and back to dry land.
There are a number of hotspots across Hampshire where regular incidents occur – from Bramley in the north of the county, Purbook in the east, right across to Ringwood in the west of the New Forest.
The Brockenhurst ford on Balmer Lawn Road is the most frequently occurring vehicle water rescue incident location followed by Pigeon House Lane in Purbrook which is known for surface flooding.
Most vehicle water rescue incidents occur between the months of November and February, peaking in January.
On the 18th December, significant rainfall saw HIWFRS called out to 11 separate incidents – the highest number we have responded to in more than 10 years.
Just last month, on-call firefighters from Fordingbridge were called to Rockford in the New Forest, after a vehicle entered a flooded section of the road and became submerged, being swept approximately 50 metres downstream.
Group Manager Phil Foxton said:
“We have noticed an increase in the number of rescues from vehicles in water we are being called out to.
“Heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers and blocked drainage systems can all lead to significant levels of floodwater flowing onto our roads.
“We ask that drivers take care and not take any chances when they come across flooded roads – it’s simply not worth the risk.”
Flooding can make roads extremely dangerous for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
- If you come across a flooded road on your journey, turn back and find another route.
- Always follow warning signs and road closures.
- Floodwater can be deeper and faster than it looks – don’t take any chances!
- If you see a someone stranded in a vehicle in water, call 999 and provide details of the location and injuries.
