An elderly couple has been rescued by specialist crews after being trapped inside their car during a flood in Devon. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue (DSFRS) was alerted and deployed rescue crews to Bridge Reeve, near Chulmleigh at around 10:50 GMT. The teams were able to rescue the couple in time, despite the situation being critical as the water had already risen to the door handles both inside and outside the vehicle of the elderly couple.
According to DSFRS, specialist rescue crews utilized a boat and water safety gear to rescue both occupants, who fortunately did not sustain any injuries during the ordeal. However, both were left in the care of ambulance crews for further checks. In view of the potential threat posed by floods, DSFRS advised the public to never drive or walk through flooded areas as even shallow moving water can sweep people off their feet. There may also be hidden dangers, such as damaged road surfaces, open drains, submerged debris, or deep channels.
Furthermore, vehicles caught up in floodwaters could be swept away in just 30cm of flowing water, and it is never recommended to make unnecessary trips in bad weather, as there is a high probability of harm or injury to oneself or others. This event has triggered concerns across Devon and Somerset and has placed a renewed emphasis on the need to remain vigilant at all times, especially during adverse weather conditions when hazards may be difficult to detect.
This is a vivid reminder that adverse weather conditions can be a lethal scourge for those caught unawares. These situations demand that everyone takes adequate precautions to remain safe and, if possible, avoid travel in hazardous areas where the risk of danger is elevated. The elderly couple’s ordeal might have been disastrous, but swift action by specialist responders ensured both occupants had a lucky escape from a potentially deadly situation
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