Driving Conditions

Driving Conditions

Dear residents,

We’re expecting this heavy rain to continue right through to Sunday. If you’re driving please take extra care and follow our advice.

Driving through flood water is extremely dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible.

Here are the key risks and safety tips:

Dangers of Driving Through Flood Water

Vehicle Loss of Control
Just 30 cm (about a foot) of moving water can sweep away most cars. Even shallow water can cause hydroplaning and loss of steering.

Hidden Hazards
Flood water often conceals potholes, debris, or missing road surfaces, which can damage your vehicle or trap you.

Engine Damage
Water entering the engine through the air intake can cause catastrophic failure (hydro lock), leaving you stranded.

Electrical Risks
Flood water can short-circuit electrical systems, disabling critical safety features.

Contaminated Water
Flood water may contain sewage, chemicals, or sharp objects, posing health risks if you exit the vehicle.

Safety Advice

Avoid Driving Through Flood Water
If you see water covering the road, turn around and find an alternative route. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” is the golden rule.

Stay Alert for Other Drivers
Sudden braking or swerving in wet conditions can lead to collisions. Driving through flood water is extremely dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible.

Slow down: Reduce your speed as stopping distances increase in wet conditions.

Increase Following Distance: Keep further back from the vehicle in front, as stopping distances can be at least double in wet weather.

Avoid harsh manoeuvres: Avoid sudden or harsh braking and acceleration to maintain grip on the road surface.

•Don't drive through standing water: Do not drive through flooded roads, as you cannot be sure of the water's depth or unseen hazards. Just 30cm of flowing water can move a car.

Use lights: Use your headlights when visibility is seriously reduced (generally when you cannot see for more than 100 metres) so other drivers can see you.

Turn off Auto lights (Daytime Running Lights) most modern vehicles cars do not illuminate the rear lights when the daytime running lights are on. Make sure other road users can see you from behind.

If steering is unresponsive: If your steering feels light (aquaplaning), ease off the accelerator and slow down gradually without braking until you regain control.

Pedestrians: Wear reflective clothing or something bright, make sure you are seen.

Officers from Riseley will be on flood watch patrolling the villages. If you see excess water/flooding then please report this to Bedfordshire Highways department on 01234 718003 or 999 if there is a risk to life, people are trapped, or the situation is dangerous.

Take care

PC 5729 NAPOLI

North Rural Community Policing Team

Riseley Police Station

High Street

Riseley

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Message Sent By
Vito Napoli
(Bedfordshire Police, Police Constable, North Rural)