SHROPSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service experienced one of its busiest weekends as storm Dennis brought flooding to several areas of the County seeing over 300 emergency calls being received in 24 hours.

The sheer volume and variety of incidents the fire crews dealt with reflects the broad range of skills they can deploy to help protect the people of Shropshire and beyond. Boat crews performed water rescues, whilst other crews attended flooded properties and assisted in flood-water pumping. The Service also responded to numerous incidents in which cars had been driven into flood water and the occupants required rescuing.

They worked closely with partner agencies including the Environment Agency, West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance and Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service to deliver a co-ordinated rescue and relief response.

“Storm Dennis tested both our communities and our emergency responders,” said Chief Fire Officer Rod Hammerton.

I would like to give particular thanks to our On-call Firefighters, who have worked tirelessly to protect their communities all weekend – knowing they had to get back to their day jobs today.

“Thanks also to our control room team who have looked after over 300 incidents; giving safety advice and making sure the right fire engines get to the right places at the right time.”

The Fire Service say that it is important that people follow signs and take the advice of emergency services when roads are closed.

Advice has also been given about the danger that can come from cleaning up.

People are warned against the use of petrol driven equipment such as dryers indoors as these will give off poisonous carbon monoxide that can kill.

Many of the personnel who assisted throughout the storm are on-call firefighters. On-call staff are a crucial part of the Fire Service and play an essential role in keeping communities safe and more of them are needed.