Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 29/06/2007 15:29

It is anticipated that the county may suffer heavy rainfall and potential flooding over the next few days.

In light of this Cornwall County Fire Brigade and Emergency Planning Officers would like the public to take heed of some simple safety messages;

• 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;

• Do not attempt to walk through flooded areas. Even shallow water moving fast can sweep you off your feet and there may be hidden dangers such as open drains, damaged road surfaces, submerged debris or deep channels; these can cause serious injuries or even death;

• Children should not be allowed to play in flood water, which can become contaminated with sewerage and chemicals;

• Do not smoke, eat or drink whilst in contact with floodwater and always wash your hands afterwards;

• Keep an eye on weather reports on local television or radio news channels. Do not travel in heavy rain storms unless absolutely necessary;

• Look after neighbours. People have been known to suffer from hypothermia after their homes have become flooded with cold rainwater even in the summer time;

• Remember that the during a storm the emergency services will be very busy, only call for immediate assistance if there is a risk to life or serious property or environmental damage;

• Following a flood in your home, make sure all electrical circuits are fully dried out and checked by an electrical engineer before switching back on.