Firefighters on Cornwall will go on strike next week due to an ongoing dispute with the Government over pensions changes.

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service is once again asking the public to be extra vigilant and careful after the Fire Brigades Union confirmed that its members will strike from 9am on Tuesday December 9 to 9am on Wednesday December 10.

CFRS chief fire officer Des Tidbury said: “Our contingency plans were tested during the last periods of strike action and we are currently updating the details of those plans to ensure that once again we remain focused on public and firefighter safety; providing the best service to the people of Cornwall within the limitations of the resources available to us and ensuring a quick return to normalisation.”

CFRS is asking people to act on the following 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 at www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire

Des 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.”