Fire Brigade issues safety warnings ahead of further flooding
The London Fire Brigade has alerted the public to safety precautions during flooding, following heavy rain that has impacted roads and buildings throughout the city overnight.
Submerged: a significant portion of Morden Hall Park was inundated this morning.
Additional heavy rain is expected over the next 24 to 36 hours.
Morden Hall Park, which is overseen by the National Trust and located by the River Wandle near Croydon, is currently closed to visitors due to flooding. The park's management issued a statement saying, “Due to the recent heavy rainfall, certain pathways and sections of the park are inaccessible. We advise you to seek alternative routes for your trip.”
In Wallington, a vehicle got stuck in deep floodwaters on High Street, requiring assistance for the driver to get out.
The LFB's emergency hotline received approximately 350 reports of flooding throughout London, as firefighters responded to situations in locations like Ruislip, Uxbridge, Wimbledon, and Carshalton.
"The Brigade reported that their efforts involved saving individuals stuck in vehicles, helping others leave their homes, and addressing flooding in subways, streets, houses, and businesses."
In over his head: the submerged area beneath the Wallington railway bridge surprised the driver of this vehicle last night.
Control officers implemented a system of grouping incidents, focusing first on calls that posed a threat to life while treating other calls as less urgent.
Flood alerts are still in effect for several regions in London, and teams are actively addressing situations using various tools designed to help rescue individuals caught in floodwaters, remove excess water, and safeguard buildings.
Fire rescue teams are outfitted with water rescue gear, including inflatable boats designed for rescue operations. The Brigade has four specialized flood response kits, each one containing sturdy flood rescue boats, paddles, and solid floating pontoons. These pontoons can be assembled into bridges and walkways to assist in the rescue of individuals. The kits also include protective dry suits and boots for use by firefighters when aiding those in flooded regions.
A representative from the London Fire Brigade stated: “While our firefighters collaborate with other agencies to protect the citizens of London, it’s crucial for everyone to be aware of how to respond in the event of flooding.”
Throughout the night, firefighters conducted several rescue operations for individuals stuck in their vehicles. If you can, please steer clear of driving through flooded areas, as cars can swiftly lose stability in flowing water.
If you're behind the wheel and your vehicle gets trapped in rising floodwater, make sure you and your passengers unfasten your seat belts and, if you can, get out to safety.
"If you find yourself stuck in your car, switch on all the lights, including your hazard lights. Yell for assistance and honk your horn to get attention. If you can, grab your mobile phone and dial 999 for help."
Steps To Take During A Flood Emergency
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