Flood water fright for teenagers trapped on car roof

The drama unfolded as the trio - two male and one female - were travelling through a normally shallow crossing over the River Bush at the Livery Road on Wednesday night.

Heavy downpours of rain the previous evening had transformed conditions and water is understood to have swamped the electrics of the car bringing it to a halt.

Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), the PSNI and Ambulance Service (NIAS) took part in the rescue operation which lasted around 40 minutes.

A NIFRS spokesperson said: “We received a call last night (Wednesday 9 November) at 7.04pm to attend an incident involving a car with three teenagers trapped in approx. 2ft of water at Livery Road, Stranocum.

“Two fire appliances from Ballymoney and one from Coleraine attended the incident and used a 9m ladder and water rescue equipment to rescue the teenagers.

“The teenagers – two boys and a girl – were praised for their actions. When they realised that their car had become stuck in water they dialled 999 and listened to the advice given. They were able to get on to the roof of the car and remain there until the Fire & Rescue Service arrived.”

The spokesperson added the three young people were treated at the scene by ambulance staff.

Following the incident, NIFRS has issued the following advice for motorists if they find themselves in flooded areas:

“Motorists should not attempt to drive through flooded roads or fords. The water is often deeper than it looks and your vehicle may be swept away or become stranded. If you do become stranded call 999 and ask for the Fire & Rescue Service.

“The water is often deeper than it looks and your vehicle may be swept away or become stranded. If you do become stranded call 999 and ask for the Fire & Rescue Service.

“Do not attempt to walk through flooded areas. Even shallow water moving fast can sweep you off your feet and there may be hidden dangers such as open drains, damaged road surfaces, submerged debris or deep channels; these can cause serious injuries or even death.

“Keep an eye on weather reports on local television or radio news channels. Do not travel in heavy rain storms unless absolutely necessary.”