Family Rescued From Flooded Ford

A family had to be rescued by firefighters today (January 17th 2011) after their car became stranded while trying to cross a flooded ford.

It happened when the car became stuck in the ford near Brook in the New Forest.

A one-year-old boy and a three-year-old girl had to be carried to safety by firefighters wearing dry suits while the parents were led to safety.

The fire crews from Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service then helped recover the car from the water.

Tom Carr, Southampton group manager from Redbridge fire station, said:

"Crews from Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst are specially trained for incidents such as this.

"They carried out a successful rescue from the vehicle in a controlled manner, ensuring the safety of the family in the car and firefighters was paramount.

"South Central Ambulance Service were requested to carry out a precautionary medical check of the two children and both were given a clean bill of health.''

Warning motorists of the dangers of flooded roads, he added:

"As was experienced today, the depth or the rapid flow of water are not always apparent, especially when there have been high levels of rainfall.

"I would urge motorists to proceed with caution during inclement weather and consider the consequences of their actions when attempting to drive vehicles through water.

"I recommend that it is much safer to not take a risk and to find an alternative route.''