THE fire service dealt with more than 170 calls as a result of last night's fierece storms and have warned residents to take extra care during the recent extreme weather. 

Berkshire was gripped by fierce thunder and lightning storms last night which caused widespread flooding, house fires and fallen trees.

Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service said 47 of the incidents they were called to were related to flooding and offered some top tips for people to stay safe.

  • Do not drive through flood water – drivers are still taking enormous risks, with several vehicles having become completely submerged – drivers are endangering their lives.
  • Manholes may be dangerous – during the flooding it is difficult to see what is underneath the water but the rain can add pressure underneath the man holes.
  • Ensure good ventilation if using portable indoor heating appliances to dry out indoor spaces – do not use petrol or diesel generators or other similar fuel-driven equipment indoors: the exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide which can kill.
  • Do not turn on gas or electrics if they are wet – only turn them on when they have been checked by a qualified technician.
  • Do not move or ignore road closures signs – they are there for your safety, so do not ignore them.

Paul Jacques, Group Manager at RBFRS, said: “Overnight the crews have been working with their local communities, continually responding to incidents across Berkshire. 

“There were a large number of calls to flooding in residential properties in the west of the county. If residents are experiencing flooding, we are urging them to assess the situation before calling the emergency services. Our resources are being utilised extensively during this busy period to critical incidents.

"I would like to reassure people that we are still working very hard in the worst affected areas and we will continue to monitor and review our operations.”

If available for your neighbourhood, sign up for free flood warning messages from the Environment Agency’s Floodline: 0345 988 1188.