Fire brigade offers safety advice during strike

The union has proposed three periods of industrial action, from 12 noon until 5 pm on Friday 2 May, from 2 pm on Saturday 3 May until 2 am on Sunday (4 May) and from 10 am until 3pm on Sunday 4 May, as part of an on-going dispute with the government over pensions.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service has contingency plans in place to ensure 999 calls are responded to during the proposed strike periods, but resources will be limited.

Chief Fire Officer John Buckley said: “The Service will respond to incidents with trained firefighters using recognised fire and rescue equipment but, with the level of operational cover significantly lower than usual, it may take longer for crews to get there.

“I would therefore urge people to take extra care, either while at home, at work, or when out and about visiting family and friends and making the most of the long Bank Holiday weekend.

“They should be particularly careful when travelling on our roads, which can be extremely busy at this time of year.”

Mr Buckley said people can also help by only dialling 999 in a genuine emergency.

“Naturally we would prefer to prevent incidents from occurring whenever possible but, if they do, we will respond,” he said.

“I sincerely hope for a speedy resolution to the dispute between the FBU and the government.”

Businesses also need to be aware of the reduced level of cover, which means that Automatic Fire Alarms will not be responded to unless followed up with a 999 call.

Businesses should review their fire risk assessments and evacuation plans to take this into account.

For more safety advice and information visit www.notts-fire.gov.uk.