Around twenty people have been assisted out of their homes at Little Venice Caravan Park in Yalding due to flooding. Crews were called to the area around 10.34am, firefighters together with the local Flood Wardens and Maidstone Borough Council supported the evacuation of around 115 mobile homes at the site in Hampstead Lane. Firefighters used an inflatable boat to gain access to the residents that were most at risk. Many of them were given welfare support and have been helped by family and friends. The caravan park is likely to be cut off for at least the next few days before the water subsides. Crews worked in a challenging environment that saw the flood water rise by about six inches throughout the day as they were evacuating residents. Kent Fire and Rescue Service Station Manager, Lee Abel explained what the joint operation involved: “We’ve been assisting a number of people of all ages out of their properties – from the elderly to the very young. Our thoughts are with those people who’ll not be in their homes over the next few days. It’s certainly a challenging experience and can be extremely distressing, however most people are now in the care of their families, friends or with Maidstone Borough Council.Lee went on to praise the way the crews, partner agencies and local community worked together: "I’d like to pay tribute to the way everyone worked so well to help so many people to safety, and away from the rising water. The local flood plan for this residential park really came into its own today. It just proves how essential planning for such incidents can support everyone involved but more importantly to minimise the stress and disruption that those affected faced. We were all able to work at speed to access those most in need and to get them to a place of safety.”Roads in the area are closed and motorists are advised to avoid the Yalding and immediate area and find alternative routes. Lee renewed the plea for people on the roads to be sensible and safe during the current weather conditions: “Flood water is often deeper than it looks and may be moving quite fast - your vehicle could be swept away or become stranded. If you see that the road is closed due to flooding - remember that sign is there for a reason.” Other tips include: - When driving make sure you drive to suit the conditions – keep lights on and speeds down, remembering road surfaces will be slippery and your braking distance will be longer.- Never 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 or damaged road surfaces, which can cause serious injuries or even death.- Listen to the local radio, TV and check social media for flood warnings in your area - Visit the Environment Agency website for more advice, flood warnings and to sign up to their Floodline or call 0845 988 1188 - There is more information about flooding by visiting our website: www.kent.fire-uk.org/your-safety/flooding