With all the torrential rain we've been having lately this is one form of extreme driving most of us will probably be faced with. Driving in floods, of course should be avoided if at all possible. If you do find yourself driving when flooding is likely to occur there are a few things to bear in mind.

1. The first and most obvious thing to do is avoid the flooding. If you are driving in an area you know well you will probably have an idea of which roads are most likely to flood, so don't use them. If you are in an area you know less well, read the geography ahead as best you can. Try to stick to major roads which are usually better drained, avoid valleys and shallows and keep away from rivers and streams.

2. If you do find yourself face to face with a flooded road, never drive into the floodwater if you don't know how deep it is. This may sound obvious but you would be surprised just how many people come a cropper this way. The basic rule is that the engine must stay above water level. If the water is approaching the level of the bottom of your doors, turn around.

3. If you do proceed stick to the highest point of the road surface. If you can't tell, it's usually the middle of the road. Avoid the edges as hidden kerbs and ditches can be very deep.

4. Don't pass vehicles coming the other way in floodwater. Wait for the vehicle closest to the flooding to cross. Passing each other in floodwater can result in a flooded engine and that spells disaster.

5. When you drive through, keep your speed low to avoid creating waves that can flood the engine. Pick your line before entering the flooded area and stick to it. Turning in floodwater can also lead to a flooded engine.

6. Keep the car in first or second gear and maintain high revs while in the floodwater. This will prevent water getting into the exhaust which can stall the engine.

7. Remember that braking will be severely affected in very wet conditions so slow down and allow plenty of room to stop.

8. Once you have passed through the flood, test your brakes as soon as it is safe to do so.

9. Make sure you have your mobile with you in case you do breakdown and bring waterproof and warm clothing if you suspect serious flooding before you leave.

10. If you do stall, if the car won't re-start immediately get out as soon as you can. Be very careful, just a few inches of water can knock you off of your feet. Get to higher ground and call for assistance.

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