At 3.54pm on Thursday, January 2nd, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service crews from Rhayader, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, Welshpool and Aberystwyth Fire Stations responded to an incident at the Claerwen Reservoir in the Elan Valley, Rhayader.
Crews responded to a road traffic collision involving one private motor vehicle and four casualties. The vehicle had overturned and come to rest on its side near the edge of the reservoir. One of the casualties was conveyed to hospital by Coastguard Helicopter.
This incident was especially challenging due to the lack of light, difficult terrain, proximity to the water’s edge, poor radio and phone signal and icy conditions. This incident required a multi-agency response, with Dyfed-Powys Police, Welsh Ambulance Services Trust, Brecon Mountain Rescue and Coastguard personnel also in attendance.
Fire and Rescue Service crews left the scene at 8.52pm. A multi-agency de-brief took place at Rhayader Fire Station, which provided the opportunity for all involved to build on the positive relationships that were critical to the successful rescues that took place.
Winter Driving Safety
Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is calling on residents to take extra care when driving this winter. Winter, of all the seasons, requires the most care and attention if you are going to stay safe on the roads.
Making simple preparations to your vehicle whilst also considering the current weather and road conditions, planning routes ahead of setting off and adapting your driving style to suit the conditions will all help reduce the risks this winter.
More information on winter driving safety can be found here.
