Llanrwst flooding fears eased after fire service tests

Aug 7 2008 by Michelle Coyle, North Wales Weekly News

Flood fight

TOWNSFOLK in Llanrwst have had some of their flooding fears eased by North Wales Fire Service.

Scientists predict increased downpours due to climate change, putting North Wales at greater risk than ever before.

Boasting its commitment to the people of the ConwyValley, North Wales Fire Service used a roadshow to highlight the equipment and highly trained staff it employs to combat flooding and to rescue those in trouble.

Operations manager Steve Neale said: “We have a lot of waterways in the area where people can get into trouble and with global warming increasing flooding risks, it is vital we have the skills and equipment required to deal with such instances.

“We showed people the equipment we use when dealing with floods and water rescues. One of these is our high volume pump able to move 7,000 litres a minute which was used in the severe floods in Doncaster and Gloucester.

“We demonstrated our water rescue units which can save people from North Wales’ fast flowing rivers. Our rafts and trained teams have been involved in over 100 rescues since 2000.”

Steve added: “The event reassured Llanrwst residents that our teams are ahead of the game, having invested heavily in equipment and training our crews.”

Llanrwst mayor Gordon Williams appreciated the efforts made by the fire service. “We’re very glad of anything they can do that will alleviate flooding problems here in Llanrwst,” he said.

Debbie Turnbull, founder of River and Sea Sense in honour of her son Chris who tragically lost his life at Llugwy Falls, welcomed the investment in water rescue services.

“It’s fantastic that more is being done to help save people in danger,” she said. “I am working hard to promote safety among those who enjoy watersports.”

Floods can have far-reaching effects, trapping people in cars, threatening livestock, not to mention damaging homes and putting human life in danger.

In a bid to help prevent recurring floods the Welsh Assembly and Flood Risk Management Wales Committee have secured funding to improve and increase defences.

Schemes include the recently announced £5m flood alleviation scheme for the Conwy Valley and the partnership between Welsh Water and local authorities to improve drainage.

michelle.coyle