Local residents are being encouraged to take extra care to prevent fires and other emergencies during the festive period following the announcement of further firefighter strike action.
In an on-going dispute with the Government over pensions, the Fire Brigades’ Union (FBU) has announced the series of walkouts over the festive period.
Firefighters will go on strike for five hours from 7pm on Tuesday 24th December until and midnight on Christmas Day.
Industrial action will also take place between 6.30pm on Tuesday 31st December and 12.30am on New Year’s Day. The final dates announced will see crews walkout for two hours on Friday 3rd January between 6.30am and 8.30am.
During the strikes, a skeleton service will operate from six strategic locations across the AF&RS area. Bath will be covered by a single fire engine for the area.
Fire cover will be provided in the main by firefighters who are not part of the FBU. They will work alongside a small number of auxiliary firefighters who have received training to provide basic support to fully qualified crews.
Due to the reduced service AF&RS will be prioritising calls to emergencies where there is a risk to life.
Chief Fire Officer Kevin Pearson said: “This is a national dispute over which Avon Fire Authority has no control. Although we have contingency arrangements in place, the reality is we will not be in a position to provide the excellent emergency response we usually do.
“As these latest strikes coincide with the holiday period I’d encourage people to add fire safety to their Christmas ‘to do’ list. Although ensuring you have precautions and plans in place to protect you against fire is good practice anytime, it’s particularly important during a period when our emergency response capability will be reduced.
“Accidents do happen but it is possible to reduce the risk and the impact of a fire in your home this Christmas by taking extra care not to leave cooking unattended, making sure you check smoke alarms are working and rehearsing escape routes with the whole family and guests.
“Business owners and managers should also be aware of their responsibilities to staff and customers under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order.
“Although we will be prioritising calls our advice remains the same – if you have a fire you should get out, stay out and call 999.”
