FIRE crews responded to fifteen calls across Dorset between midnight and 10.30am today (January 27) from people who had driven into floodwater and became stuck.

As a result, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is reminding drivers to take care when driving on roads potentially affected by flooding.

With more storms likely through the rest of the winter, the service wants drivers to be aware of the dangers of surface water on the roads.

Area manager Ant Bholah said: “Very often, surface water doesn’t appear very deep but there can be unseen dips in the road which then catch drivers unaware.

“There is also a risk of drivers in larger vehicles driving through water without dropping their speed, which then creates a ‘bow wave’ effect – and this can cause significant risks for other vehicles.

“While this wet weather continues, please drive to the conditions and be particularly cautious at fords, where water levels can rise a lot in a short space of time.”

DWFRS has issued the following advice for people travelling through areas affected by flooding:

• Wherever possible, don’t drive through standing water – as well as the water damaging your car, there may be hazards under the water you can’t see.
• If you see a sign to say that the road is closed due to flooding, remember the sign is there for a reason. Don’t try to drive through or you might get stuck.
• If you are driving a larger vehicle, do not go through flood water at speed as this creates a ‘bow wave’ that can then cause flooding to other vehicles or adjacent properties.
• When driving, if heavy rain is making visibility difficult, pull over if possible. Male sure your car lights are on.
• Remember that roads and pavements will be slippery during wet conditions.
• Don’t try and walk through floodwater that is above knee level, as the force of the water could easily knock you off your feet. There is also a danger of open manholes, trenches or other hazards that you can’t see.

DWFRS urged motorists to check their route before setting off and allow extra time for any necessary diversions.

Further advice about driving in adverse conditions can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/driving-in-adverse-conditions