hand brake light coming on when driving ?

done a bit off roading today, nothing too heavy but did have to cross a river that came over the tyres. I noticed later in the day on my way home that when i applied the foot brake 'firmly' the red handbrake light comes on (without touching the hamdbrake) - then goes off as soon as i take my foot off the brake. it doesnt do this under soft braking.
to be honest the brakes felt alright, done about 30 mile on way back. any ideas ?

Check your brake fluid level, same warning light.

Gary

Ditto, probably warn your pads/ shoes down so the fluid level has got low.

Check front pads and rear shoes, replace where necessary and you might not need to top up the brake fluid as the callipers/cylinder pistons will go back in somewhat.

Be aware that off roading can make the brakes eat pads and shoes as mud gets in them and acts like a grinding paste.

Kirkynut

cheers gary - topped the brake fluid up and all is well again. front pads are fine, i suspect the rears may be down. going to clean them out while i've got some time off and probs replace.
cheer gary and kirky. wish all problems were this simple