Firefighters to go on four-hour strike today

RESIDENTS are reminded to not make unnecessary 999 calls as firefighters go on a four-hour strike today.

Humberside Fire and Rescue Service will be providing a reduced emergency response service today between noon and 4pm – and is asking for help from the local community.

As reported, the industrial action is being taken over a pensions dispute with the Government.

There will be no assistance available from Ministry of Defence sources in respect of staff or equipment.

However, not all firefighters will take part in the action as not all are members of The Fire Brigades' Union (FBU). The strike will also not include control staff.

Today, Richard Hannigan, Chief Fire Officer for Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, said: "While the industrial action is taking place we will still respond to 999 calls.

"A basic level of service is in place but we are asking people to only call 999 if they really do need a fire engine. Our priority will be to respond to those calls where lives are at risk."

A non-emergency call could be to someone who is locked outside their house or where debris has fallen in the road. There are other agencies and organisations that can help in this instance.

Mr Hannigan said: "We do find ourselves in an unusual situation where we must prioritise our calls for those who are most in need of our assistance.

"However, I must emphasise that you should still call 999 in an emergency so that an experienced control room operator can deal with your situation. You must not try and call your local fire station directly."

Mr Hannigan has previously expressed disappointment at the FBU's decision.

"We understand how important pensions are to our staff, however the safety of our communities must come first and I am disappointed that members of the union have chosen to take this route," he said.

"I fully appreciate the concerns the union has over the proposed changes to pensions and hope that it is able to come to a satisfactory agreement through further discussions with government.

"We have confidence in our robust plans that will enable us to provide an emergency response service."