Conondale – swift water rescue

12 February, 2012
Author: Charles Hodgson

if it’s flooded, forget it.

It is easy for people to be caught out, even on familiar roads. If you think local knowledge will get you through, think again. Floodwaters are treacherous and the dangers are hidden under the surface. Flash flooding can occur quickly and catch drivers unaware and there is no excuse for those who deliberately drive past a road closed sign into flood water.
In most cases, swift water rescue is completely preventable. Flooded road crossings have the potential force to move very heavy vehicles and once the tyres leave the road surface the driver will have no control over the vehicle and no amount of experience or driver training can prevent that.
People who enter floodwaters are not only putting their lives at risk, but the lives of their rescuers. Although firefighters are highly trained and skilled, swift water rescue is the most dangerous operation they are required to undertake.