Berwyn Firefighters Perform Water Rescues

As heavy rains hit the Tredyffrin-Easttown area, the calls for water rescues began to come in. Based on the time of the heavy rain sweeping across the area in a short amount of time, travel became treacherous even in areas where flooding does not usually occur.

A total of three water rescues were performed at the following locations in Easttown:

• Church Road and Sugartown Road
• Arlington Road and Berkley Road
• Lakeside Avenue and Lancaster Avenue

The Tredyffrin Township Public Works Department was able to get barricades set-up in the greater Glenhardie area, especially in the area of Richards Rd. and Glenhardie Rd. to prevent potential water rescues. This proactive measure paid off as no calls came in this area during this intense rain storm.

The Berwyn Fire Company wants to share some important flood facts from our colleagues at FEMA. The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• A foot of water will float many vehicles
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV's) and pick-ups.
• Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
• Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
• Do not try to take short cuts. They may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.
• Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

FEMA reports that flash floods are the #1 weather-related killer in the U.S. since they can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings and bridges. A flash flood is a rapid flooding of low-lying areas in less than six hours, which is caused by intense rainfall from a thunderstorm or several thunderstorms.

Please remember these important safety tips as we prepare for the next storm event from June 13th through June 14th. Stay updated at http://www.accuweather.com.