FIREFIGHTERS will go out on strike next week following cancelled action last month.
Industrial action is set to go ahead from 6.30pm to 11.30pm on Friday, November 1, and 6am to 8am the following Monday (November 4).
It comes after a planned strike on Saturday, October 19, was cancelled by the Fire Brigades Union, who are in dispute with the Government over changes to pensions.
The action will affect all FBU members but does not affect emergency call handlers or support staff.
Area commander Jon Pryce, head of operations for Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “While the industrial action is ongoing we will still be responding to 999 calls, but we will be asking members of the public to take extra steps to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in their home.
“We would ask people to ensure they have working smoke alarms in their homes as this can provide them with an early warning if a fire should break out in their home. Above all else please remain vigilant.”
A spokesman added the service hoped there would be continued dialogue between the union and Government over the coming days to prevent the action taking place.
A plan is in place to deal with industrial action but it would result in a ‘significant reduction’ of the resources available with the most urgent calls prioritised.
