Shropshire Star

Shropshire fire chiefs urge public to be vigilant during strike

Firefighters in Shropshire are due to start a four-day walkout tomorrow night – and bosses are urging people to be "extra vigilant" while the action is going on.

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The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) is involved in a dispute over plans to make firefighters work until they are 60 instead of 55, pay more into their pensions and get less in retirement.

  • Vote in today's poll: Is it irresponsible for fire crews to strike this weekend as people attend bonfires?

Telford and Shrewsbury will be affected as members of the FBU are called to take strike action from 6pm on Friday evening until Tuesday at 6pm, with a scheduled return to work in time for Bonfire Night.

Shropshire Fire & Rescue Service deputy chief fire officer Rod Hammerton said he wanted to assure the public that firefighters would respond as normal in an emergency due to contingency arrangements that had been put in place.

But he stressed the need for everyone to take extra care during the strike.

"It is the longest period of strike action yet and this will test the resilience plans of Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service – but we are prepared and if anyone calls in an emergency we will respond," said Mr Hammerton.

The chief said the county's on-call firefighters, who provide fire cover across rural parts of the county and are not involved in the dispute, will crew two extra fire engines to provide more protection in Telford and Shrewsbury during the strike.

He added: "Senior managers of Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service are unable to affect the outcome of this dispute because it is between the FBU and central Government.

"But we do hope to see a resolution as soon as possible.

"At this time our focus is on providing fire and rescue cover for our communities and I am confident our plans can do that.

"However I do urge the public to be extra vigilant with their own safety, particularly at a time when many of us are enjoying Bonfire Night celebrations."

Mr Hammerton said he wanted to reiterate the importance of having at least one smoke alarm on each floor of a home to give people time to escape in the event of a fire. Other advice includes avoiding late-night cooking sessions after drinking alcohol.

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