Toronto-area fire services offer tips to avoid being stranded in floods [Video]

Images of cars and SUVs stranded in flooded roadways with water rising past their windows have flashed across news and online feeds this summer as the Greater Toronto Area weathered torrential downpours that caused havoc for drivers in certain areas.

The visuals, and the stories of water rescues that have accompanied them, may have raised questions for motorists on how to best react if they find themselves in similar situations in the future, with emergency services saying there are several steps that can be taken to reduce risks.

“The first approach, of course, is to avoid areas of water,” said Deputy Chief Stephane Malo of Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services, which has had to carry out several water rescues in the city this summer, including 22 this past weekend.

“Vehicles can be stranded in water … and it’s a very hazardous thing for people to be stuck in their car.”

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