Firefighters are urging Londoners to stay safe following a night of heavy downpours that caused flooding across various areas, including Ruislip.
Roads, homes, and businesses were affected by the overnight deluge, with the London Fire Brigade responding to hundreds of emergency calls.
Throughout the night, London Fire Brigade’s 999 Control Officers received around 350 calls related to flooding. Firefighters were dispatched to incidents in areas such as Ruislip, Uxbridge, Wimbledon, and Carshalton, where they rescued people trapped in cars, helped residents leave their homes, and responded to flooding at underground stations, roadways, residential areas, and commercial properties.
In response to the large number of calls, Control Officers prioritised incidents where there was a direct risk to life, attending non-emergency cases once those in immediate danger had been assisted.
Flood warnings are still in place across London, and fire crews continue to tackle incidents using a range of specialised equipment designed for water rescues. This includes inflatable rescue boats, water pumps, and protective gear for firefighters working in flooded areas.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson stressed the importance of knowing how to stay safe during floods, saying:
“As firefighters continue to work with partners to keep Londoners safe, it’s important to make sure you know what to do if you experience flooding.
“Firefighters carried out multiple rescues involving people trapped in cars throughout the night. If possible, please avoid driving into flooded water or a flooded area as vehicles can quickly become unstable in moving water.
“If you’re driving and your car becomes caught in flood waters, ensure you and your passengers unbuckle your seat belts and where possible climb out to safety.
“If you become trapped in your vehicle, turn on all the lights, including your hazard warning lights. Shout and sound your horn for help, and if you are able to reach your mobile, call 999.”
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