A GROUP of Hampshire firefighters have called on drivers to be more aware of the space they are leaving for emergency services when parking their cars.

Crews in Romsey have said not enough space is being left constantly around Abbotswood and that it could impact the safety of the town.

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service’s I Need My Space campaign was launched to raise awareness of the distance drivers leave between cars, and not to block the hatchings outside of fire stations.

The lines outside Romsey Fire Station had even been repainted last year.

Now, Romsey watch manager Antony Hurle has asked Abbotswood residents to ensure they are leaving enough of a gap after previously struggling to get through.

He said: “We at Romsey Fire Station feel strongly compelled to support the I Need My Space campaign.

“We want to help members of the public understand that they can help us by ensuring they park their vehicle to allow sufficient space for an emergency vehicle to pass.

“We are acutely aware of the difference that can be made in the safety of those who summon our help in being delayed even by such small amounts of time.”

On social media, the fire station put out warnings to residents about the distance. The service says it needs 3.1 metres to get through.

One post said: “We have visited recently and are very concerned about fire engines being able to move around the site.”

On another post, the station said it was a wider issue for drivers across Romsey.

Last year, firefighters based in Romsey said not leaving enough room and blocking crews in could be the difference between life and death.

Watch manager Hurle said that it was blocking staff, who have full-time jobs elsewhere, from getting to the station in an emergency.

The station, based on Alma Road, has five crew managers and 22 firefighters and cover the Test Valley as well as the Eastleigh borough.