NIFRS Receives 384 Emergency Calls In 48 Hours

The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) have received 384 emergency calls, with 162 of these calls being flood related incidents over the last two days.

Between 6.00pm on 30 October until 1.00pm on 1 November, NIFRS Specialist Rescue Team, Flood Response Teams and local crews attended 75 flood related incidents which involved rescuing 5 people who had entered water, 31 people from vehicles in water and 12 people from flooded properties, including attending 8 animal rescue incidents and 7 water in electrics incidents.

Firefighters are continuing to deal with a number of water related incidents, including flooding, water rescues, water in electrics and animal rescues.

NIFRS is reminding the public that in the event of serious flooding to phone the NI Flooding Incident Line on 0300 2000 100. If there is a risk to life dial 999 immediately and we will respond.

NIFRS Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings said: "Our Firefighters and multi-agency partners have been working in extremely challenging, adverse weather conditions over the last few days. I would like to emphasise that we remain in the Response phase of this incident and are continuing to receive emergency 999 calls for assistance.

"I want to reassure the public that our contingency plans remain in place and we are continuing to respond should you need us in an emergency.

"I would like to pay credit to our local crews, Specialist Rescue Team, Flood Response Teams, control room operators, supervisory officers and support staff, all of whom have responded to support our operational response and enhanced resilience arrangements.

"I would also like to thank the public for supporting us during this critical time and ask that they continue to adhere to the public safety messaging and avoid flooded areas. Please act safely and be responsible and vigilant and follow our safety advice."

NIFRS is reminding everyone of the following safety advice:

• Motorists should be aware of road conditions. It takes longer to stop when the road conditions are wet. Drive at the speed the conditions allow for, such as flooding and darkness.

• Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded roads or fords. Water is often deeper than it looks and your vehicle may be swept away or become stranded.

• In shallow but passable water, motorists should avoid creating bow waves which can damage your car engine and remember to test the brakes after leaving the water.

• 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 and submerged debris.

• People should pay attention to the road closure advice as many roads are closed because of flood conditions which are not suitable for traffic.

• Please stay away from flood defences, flooded areas and watercourses as these areas may be unsafe until an assessment of the damaged caused by the heavy rain can be made.

• More information and advice can be found on www.nidirect.gov.uk.