Last updated: 05/10/2020, 9:00 AM

Flooding - West Drayton

04/10/2020 05:04
Hillingdon
Flooding
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Three fire engines and about 15 firefighters were called to the scene of flooding at Thorney Mill Road in West Drayton.

The banks of the river Colne burst due to heavy rain and flooded a caravan park.

Twenty-one mobile homes, three cottages and two detached houses on the caravan site were flooded to one metre in depth. 

Assisted by two Brigade water rescue units, firefighters evacuated residents from the affected caravan park. They assisted a further 48 people from two other nearby caravan parks as a precaution. All were transported by the local authority to a nearby civic centre. There were no reports of any injuries.

Fire crews used drones to map the extent of the flooding, and placed sand bags to control flood water in the area. Brigade command units remained in the evening to make the area safe. 

The Brigade has four specialist flood response kits, each of which contains rigid flood rescue boats and paddles and rigid floating pontoons, which can be used to make bridges and walkways to rescue people. They contain protective dry suits and boots to be worn by fire crews when rescuing people from flooded areas.

Station Commander Brett Loft, who was at the scene, said: “If you experience flooding, we would encourage you to follow our safety tips.

“Put people before property. Move your family and pets upstairs or to a high place if your home floods. Stay well away from flood water and talk to children about how dangerous it can be to play in the water.

“During a flood, don’t go out unless you have to. Remain calm and call 999 first if you are in danger.”

The Brigade was called at 0504 and the incident was over for firefighters by 2001. Fire crews from Hillingdon, Hayes, Heathrow and surrounding fire stations attended the scene throughout the day.

Fire crews worked with the local authority, the Environment Agency, the Metropolitan Police, gas, electric and water authorities.

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