FIREFIGHTERS have issued a warning after rescuing two people from a car which became trapped in rising floodwater.

Crews from Colchester, Tollesbury and West Mersea - along with an urban search and rescue team - were called to the Strood, in West Mersea, at 2.55am on Friday.

The car was caught during high tide, where the water had risen to 5.72 metres.

Whenever the tide is 5 metres and above, it will more than likely cover the Strood.

Water rescue trained crews worked to release the man and woman trapped inside the car.

Crews had to wear water proof overalls, a life jacket and use a sled to carry out the rescue.

After the couple were saved, they were left in the care of the East of England Ambulance Service as a precaution.

A spokesman for the ambulance service said an ambulance and vehicle from the hazardous response team were called out the incident just before 3.15am.

He added: “Two people were assessed at the scene and did not require transportation to hospital.”

West Mersea Fire Station watch manager Dave Farrant is urging the public to not take risks when the tide is rising.

He added: “This incident shows how easy it can be to get into trouble in and around water. - never drive into floodwater or a rising tide, it’s just not worth taking the chance.

“It’s Water Awareness week this week and it’s so important we keep spreading the message that people need to give water the respect it deserves.”

As part of the week-long campaign Essex Fire and Rescue Service staff have been visiting places they have identified as being at high risk of water incidents.

An urban search and rescue team visited Mersea on Monday to share safety advice with the public to help them be water aware.

Essex Fire and Rescue Service’s water safety lead Andrea MacAlister said: “Most people don’t think of the fire service when it comes to water rescues, but it’s an important part of our work which is why we want people to enjoy spending time in and around water safely.

“During Be Water Aware week, firefighters and community safety officers will be out around the county at locations we’ve identified as being high risk for water incidents.”

West Mersea RNLI has been contacted for comment.