FIREFIGHTERS have criticised people who park inconsiderately after returning from a life-threatening emergency call in Herefordshire.

Kington fire station said "not even a car" could get through the gap in Llewellin Road, a residential street in the town, let alone an engine.

The retained Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service crew had just returned from helping the ambulance service with a cardiac arrest incident, it said.

The fire service can be called out to help the ambulance service with such incidents, often to gain entry to houses.

But the fire station said the bad parking could have been the difference between life and death, with a cardiac arrest a medical problem where the heart stops pumping blood around the body.

Sharing a picture on Facebook showing the narrow gap left between a Vauxhall Astra and Land Rover Discovery on Saturday, the crew said: "Having not long returned from a cardiac arrest incident this afternoon helping the ambulance service we see this.

"Not even a car could get through that gap on Llewellin Road, this really could be the difference between life and death!

"Please think when you park, could an ambulance or fire engine get through?"

In November 2020, the fire service's community risk department said access on emergency calls was vital.

Station commander Steve Andrews, of the department said: “We fully understand that some streets weren’t designed for the number of cars that residents wish to park in them, but don’t forget that a fire engine is around one-and-a half-car widths.

“Ask yourself – have I left enough space for a fire engine to get through? Because every second can count when someone needs the help of the fire service. 

“Bad or careless parking can delay fire engines and emergency vehicles from reaching serious incidents in your area – that could endanger your life and the lives of your families, friends and neighbours.

“The positioning of parked cars could just make the difference between the emergency services being able to save a life or not.”