Residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area have been reassured that Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service will be operating a reduced emergency service during today’s industrial action.
Firefighters in Burnham-On-Sea are set to join crews across the country in striking in a protest over pension reforms.
The four-hour walkout will take place today (Wednesday, 25th September) from 12noon-4pm.
The fire service says it has contingency plans in place to ensure the public will receive a response to all 999 calls.
However, some locations within the two counties will be affected by the strike and, although resilience cover will be in place, the service is urging the public to take extra care during this time.
“A resilient pool of non-Fire Brigades Union firefighters are being used to respond to emergencies in these areas, but response times could be extended as a result. Unlike previous national strikes, there is no provision to use military assistance for emergency cover,” a spokesman told Burnham-On-Sea.com.
“The vast majority of automatic fire alarms attended by the Service are false alarms. During the period of industrial action, unless there is a fire confirmed the Service will not be able to respond to automatic fire alarms from businesses. Businesses are strongly encouraged to check their fire safety arrangements.”
Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell added: “The majority of our stations will be available and the public will get a response to an emergency wherever they are in Devon and Somerset.”
“Although there will always be a response, due to the likelihood of a reduced service, we will be prioritising calls to emergencies where there is a risk to life.”
“Periods of industrial action are always difficult for everyone involved and the public can help us at this time by taking extra care. The public and business owners will find safety advice on our website.”
The national strike has been announced as part of a dispute between the Fire Brigades Union and Government over proposed changes to pensions.
