The Fire Brigades Union has confirmed that its firefighters will be taking strike action between August 9 and 16 as the long running battle over pensions continues.

Strike action will take place between noon to 2pm  and 10.59 to 11.59pm over the eight days, with action short of a strike on August 9 to August 16, from 14.00 to 22.59 and from 11.59pm to noon from August 9 to  August 15. as well as from 11.59pm to further notice on August 16.

Cornwall Fire & Rescue Services (CFRS) chief fire officer Des Tidbury said: “We are developing our contingency plans to ensure we maintain minimum levels of cover during the strike action. The most important thing to remember is that if you do have a fire, get out of the building, stay out and call 999 – you will get an emergency response.

"We will continue to respond to emergency calls and will obviously prioritise those where lives are at risk. Public and fire fighter safety remains of paramount importance and we will give the best service to the people of Cornwall within the limitations of the resources available to us. My message to residents, businesses and visitors is to remain vigilant.”

During these times CFRS is asking people to act on key critical safety messages.

• In the event of fire, you should get out, stay out and call 999 – you will get an emergency response.

• Make sure you have smoke alarms on at least every level of your home

• Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they’re working. Test them regularly

• Stub cigarettes out properly and dispose of them carefully

• Plan your escape route and make sure everyone knows how to get out in a fire

• Take extra care in the kitchen and never leave cooking unattended

• Do not overload electrical sockets. Watch out for faulty and over-heating electrical equipment, and wiring/cables

• Drinking alcohol? Plan how to get home safely without driving.

Prevention advice and guidance has been prepared for businesses and residents on the fire service website.

Mr Tidbury added: “This is a national dispute between members of the Fire Brigades Union and the Government over proposed changes to pensions and is not directed against Cornwall Council or Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service. While the strike action will inevitably have an impact on the services we provide, I want to reassure you that residents in Cornwall will not be left without emergency cover in life threatening situations.”