A Shropshire fire chief has warned that further cuts to the service’s budget could put frontline operations at risk.

Shrewsbury Fire Station manager Shaun Baker said cutbacks already meant they could no longer provide all residents with free smoke alarms.

Speaking at a public meeting, Mr Baker said that the force had worked hard to ensure cutbacks had not affected frontline services too badly so far.

But he added it may be a struggle to maintain this approach in the future.

“If in the next two years the cuts get deeper we may see more effects on us,” Mr Baker warned.

“We aim to deliver an effective service at a cost that is acceptable to the community.”

Mr Baker said the smoke alarm scheme had now come to an end, with only select groups — such as the over-75s — still able to have the devices installed in their properties at no cost.

But free home risk assessments are still available.

He said the fire station still wants to promote the importance of using smoke alarms throughout homes.

“We still haven’t managed to get into every house and make sure they have a smoke alarms.”

Mr Baker added he expected to see more incidences involving people falling in the river now the nights are lighter and more evening drinking is taking place.

He said: “We are trying to make people aware of the dangers of the river.”

He said a recent reduction in the number of incidences involving the fire station may have unintended negative consequences.

“People think it is not dangerous any more. That is why we are trying to push the message of fire safety,” he said.

Shrewsbury Fire and Rescue Service says people should test their smoke alarms each week to ensure the devices are in working order.

It is also important to place them in a position in the home where they will be most effective.

The devices should be fitted at least 30cm away from any wall or light fittings and close to the centre of the room. They should be fitted where they can be heard particularly at night.

By Chris Burn