Flooding at residential and commercial block - Millwall

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to flooding on Millharbour in Millwall.

An internal hot water pipe in a ten-storey residential and commercial block ruptured, causing flooding on the first floor.

Firefighters isolated the water and electrical supplies and helped to limit the damage once the residual water receded.

The Brigade was called at 2319 and the incident was over for firefighters at 0126. Crews from Millwall, Poplar, Shadwell and Whitechapel fire stations attended.

What to do when there is a flood

• Be alert – listen for weather warnings in your area. You can also check your flood risk online.
• Prepare a flood kit or grab bag. This should contain essentials in case you have to leave your home. Learn more about grab bags
• Protect your property. You can use sandbags to limit water flow and if possible, move belongings to a higher level.
• Look out for your neighbours. Make sure they know what to do, especially if they are vulnerable.
• If your property becomes flooded avoid walking through flood waters. Six inches of fast flowing water can knock over an adult
•  Vehicles can quickly become unstable in moving water. Avoid driving into flooded water or a flooded area.

The Brigade has a range of equipment which can be used to help rescue people trapped by flood water, pump water away and protect properties.

Fire rescue units are equipped with water rescue equipment such as inflatable rescue boats and the Brigade has specialist flood response kits, each containing rigid flood rescue boats and paddles and rigid floating pontoons, and flood barriers. They also contain protective dry suits and boots to be worn by fire crews when rescuing people from flooded areas.