The fire station has issued a warning after its fire engine could not go around a corner because of cars parked in the way.

On Friday, April 19 Bridport Fire Station was returning from a job but could not go around a corner at Rivervale, Bridport, due to the parked vehicles which were in its way.

A spokesperson for Bridport Fire Station said: "Yesterday when returning from a job we had to reroute because our truck couldn’t swing around this corner in Rivervale as the cars were parked in the way.

"We don’t want to sound like a broken record but please be mindful of how you’re parking.

"In an emergency every second counts."

The incident was a false alarm in Fulbrooks Close.

A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service said: "Our smallest appliance needs a minimum of 3m, or the width of two cars, to pass safely. If you called for help, you would want to know we’re getting through.

"Poor or inconsiderate parking, even if only for a few minutes, can delay us during an emergency call and, in the case of a rapidly developing fire, every second counts."

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service have the following advice on parking:

  • Pull in your wing mirrors (don’t forget to flip them out before driving off)
  • Don’t park too close to corners, fire engines are larger than cars and need more room to turn
  • If you’re parking opposite someone, remember that a fire engine needs 3m, or two car widths, to pass safely
  • Make sure your wheels are straight and not sticking out
  • Park as close to the kerb as you can
  • Always follow the Highway Code and obey the road markings such as yellow lines and box junctions
  • In narrow streets, only park on one side of the road where possible
  • Make sure you leave enough space for pedestrians on the pavement
  • Don’t block driveways