Firefighters to strike on Wednesday

A FIREFIGHTERS strike will take place on Wednesday - but East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has vowed to continue to provide emergency cover throughout industrial action.

The Fire Brigades Union has announced that strike action regarding the national dispute over pensions, will take place on Wednesday September 25 between noon and 4pm.

It is not yet known if further strike dates will be announced.

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ESFRS says contingency crews will be ready to respond to emergencies during the industrial action.

Chief Fire Officer Des Prichard said: “We are ready to respond to emergencies.

“We have contingency crews made up of experienced, qualified and fully fit firefighters who are not members of the FBU.

“We have only just received confirmation of the time and date of the industrial action and are finalising the specifics of our arrangements to provide cover.

“Further details will be released closer to the time.

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“Our message remains - if you have a fire during the industrial action, dial 999, get out and stay out.

“Our control room staff will answer and deal with the calls in the usual way.

“We will give priority to emergencies where lives are at risk and would ask all members of our communities to think about how they can help stay safe while this industrial action takes place.”

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is launching a campaign to help people stay safe during strike action.

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Over the coming days, ESFRS will use its Facebook, Twitter and YouTube channels to promote advice to those living, working and visiting East Sussex.

Homeowners are being urged to take steps to stay safe during any strike action, ensuring working smoke alarms are installed on each floor of their home and making an escape plan.

Occupants are being asked to take special care when tired or after drinking, ensure cigarettes are stubbed out and disposed of carefully, never leave lit candles unattended, not to overload electrical sockets and keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

More advice can be found at www.esfrs.org