Eve-of-strike appeal from fire service

CHESHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is calling on members of the public in Warrington to take extra care at home and on the roads this weekend as the Fire Brigades Union launches a national strike.
The industrial action will take place between 6pm this evening (Friday) 31 and 6pm on Tuesday, November 4.
Chief Fire Officer, Paul Hancock, said: “It is important to highlight that the strikes being proposed relate to national issues rather than local ones and that action will only be taken by those staff that are members of the Fire Brigade’s Union.
“We do have plans and procedures in place that will enable us to continue to protect the communities of Cheshire during strike periods. However, as we do have less fire engines available we would once again encourage everyone to take extra care during the strike.
“It is especially important to be extra vigilant as this strike action falls within the Bonfire period, which is traditionally a very busy time for fire crews. As always, we would urge people to only attend organised bonfire and firework displays.
“We would also urge groups to consider not holding bonfire and firework
displays over the weekend as there will be less fire engines available should there be an issue.”
The service is also urging people to ensure that they have a working smoke alarm installed in their home, know exactly how to get out if a fire was to break out and to keep wheelie bins locked away.
People should be especially careful when cooking, as this is the biggest cause of accidental fires.