1 September 2008

Motorists are being advised to take extra care on flooded roads this morning after last night's rain.

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service was called out more than 20 times yesterday evening to help drivers whose cars had become stranded in flood water in the Gerrards Cross area. In some cases, appliances found it difficult to get past abandoned vehicles.

Chief Fire Officer Damian Smith said: "Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded roads or fords. The water is often deeper than it looks and may be moving quite fast. Your vehicle may be swept away or become stranded.

"Try to avoid car journeys during the worst of the weather, and always check local traffic reports to see if the route is clear before you make the journey."

He urged people to follow this advice issued by the government’s THINK! Road safety campaign:

• Don't attempt to cross if the water seems too deep.
  
• Drive slowly in first gear but keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch - this will stop you from stalling.
  
• Avoid the deepest water, usually near the kerb.
  
• Test your brakes when you are through the flood before you drive at normal speed.

He added: "Calls to vehicles stuck in floods place a strain on resources and are very often avoidable. Please think very carefully before taking the plunge."

Between about 5.30pm and 9.15pm, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's control room received 162 calls to flooding incidents in Gerrards Cross, Chalfont St Peter, Burnham, Farnham Royal, Farnham Common, Beaconsfield, Taplow, Stoke Poges, Jordans, Hedgerley and Chesham. The total number of calls for the day was 197.