by Chris Malone
The new Hindhead tunnel, one of the largest road tunnels in the UK, opened last month, allowing drivers on the A3 to take a 1.2-mile underground shortcut when travelling between London and Portsmouth.
However, caravanners using the route might be wise to pay attention to advice from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM), which claimed it is concerned about Brits’ lack of experience using such large tunnels.
It noted that vehicle fires in Europe’s Mont Blanc and Gotthard tunnels have claimed 50 lives between them, with many of those fatalities coming because drivers mistakenly stayed in their cars, rather than exiting the tunnels.
This is not the thing to do, according to IAM Drive & Survive head of training Simon Elstow, who advised that caravanners and other drivers only attempt to put out fires if someone is in immediate danger.
In all other cases drivers and passengers should leave as quickly as they can, before alerting the authorities.
“Motorists heading for Europe this summer are likely to use a road tunnel. Remember, if there is a fire or an accident, don’t wait to act – fire and smoke can be fatal,” Mr Elstow advised.
“Leave the vehicle and walk to a safe place.”
