Firefighters from across Huntingdonshire were drafted in yesterday (March 9) to help those affected by flooding.
Around 40 firefighters spent hours wading through flood water in Alconbury and Alconbury Weston after dozens of homes were flooded and residents stranded.
The fire service was called at 5.03pm to reports of vulnerable residents stuck in their homes in High Street, Alconbury Weston.
Station commander Bruce Parcell said: “Fire crews worked tirelessly alongside members of the community to ensure these residents were looked after.
“The efforts of the firefighters and helpers really were tremendous in hard, cold conditions and we must thank everyone who contributed, particularly the landlords of The White Hart public house in Alconbury Weston, who opened up their doors and operated as a community hub during these floods.”
A number of properties were affected by flood water and fire crews focussed their efforts on assisting those residents who were vulnerable or elderly.
Firefighters donned in in-water suits used boats and rescue sleds to knock on the doors of residents, check they were okay and provide assistance to those who needed it. Some people chose to remain in their properties.
Crews also used rescue sleds to help carers reach residents who required medical assistance, which enabled them to ensure medicine was administered and those most vulnerable in the community were cared for.
In total, about 12 people were given assistance by the fire service to leave their homes, and seven dogs and two cats were rescued. Crews also gave reassurance to dozens of other residents.
Crews returned to their stations by 11.10pm.
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