South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust HART continues to help residents on the Somerset Levels

Friday, 07 February, 2014

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust’s (SWASFT) Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) continues to be busy responding to calls from a number of flooded communities across the Somerset Levels. The HART is a specialist unit within the ambulance service that is trained and equipped for swift water access.

Weeks of torrential rainfall across the South West has left many communities across the Levels cut off with the main areas affected including Muchelney, Thorney, Oath, Northmoor, Saltmoor, Fordgate and Curry Moor.

Overnight on Thursday, February 6th, the village of Moorland has seen significant flooding that has presented a risk to life. SWASFT HART in conjunction with special rescue teams from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) have been involved in the rescue and evacuation of over 60 residents to places of safety and rest centers.

Throughout Thursday (6th February) the HART dealt with numerous calls including:

  • Welfare calls to patients recently discharged from hospital ensuring they are well and safe;
  • Making contact with patients who are due for hospital appointments in the coming days so that plans are in place for them to attend;
  • Partnership working with DSFRS rescue team and dealing with members of the public getting into difficulties in flood water.

More rainfall is predicted for the weekend and currently the MET Office have amber warnings in place for heavy rain and strong winds for Somerset and SWASFT is urging residents across the county to keep up to date with the latest weather information.

Derek McCullough, East Somerset Operational Locality Manager for SWASFT, said: “The HART along with other rescue agencies have been called to people stuck in flood water. Please do not enter flood water under any circumstances.”

SWASFT would encourage everyone to plan ahead for any medical needs and if help is required choose wisely. Pathways for help include your GP, 111 and only use 999 in an emergency.

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