With torrential rain accompanied by gale force winds forecast in the run up to Christmas, DriveSafe is warning motorists about the dangers of flooding.
The Birmingham-based road safety charity has ten top tips for drivers faced with flood water.
1 Avoid driving if the weather forecast says it looks like being dangerous but, if you have to drive, carry items to help if you break down, are stranded, or need to assist other drivers, including a rope, drinking water, biscuits and blankets.
2 Use your headlights as part of good practice when driving in flood conditions.
3 If your car stalls, get out and wade to higher ground, especially if the water is rising quickly.
4 If it looks like the flood water is higher that your exhaust pipe then don’t drive through it but if you’ve already started gently reverse to dry land.
5 Remember that even six inches of standing water and four inches of moving water can damage your electrical system or engine.
6 If you see other drivers in danger from fast rising flood water, call the emergency services immediately, make sure you keep your distance, and throw them a rope if you have one in the car so they can be hauled to higher ground.
7 Don’t ignore road blocks, and follow diversion signs or find alternative routes.
8 If you find yourself driving through flood water, take the drive slowly in first gear and stay on the crown of the road if possible.
9 Remember to show consideration for other road users by not ‘drowning’ other drivers or pedestrians – which is illegal – and drive with due care and attention at all times to ensure everyone’s safety.
10 When you emerge from the flood water, dry your brakes by applying them gently
DriveSafe is campaigning to make driving safer and more pleasant for motorists, motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians through its ‘Courtesy on the Road’ campaign.
The charity published a driver’s handbook, ‘DriveSafe – An Essential Guide for Motorists’ in association with Aston University last year.
The first issue of DriveSafe News is available to view and download by going to www.drivesafe-staysafe.co.uk.