New Year caution urged as firefighters prepare for further strike action

The four fire and rescue services covering the region are warning residents to expect a reduced level of emergency response on New Year’s Eve as Fire Brigades Union (FBU) members stage industrial action tonight between 6.30pm and tomorrow at 12.30am. It is the latest in a series of strikes relating to an ongoing dispute between the FBU and the Government over pension reforms.

On average in the past five years, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) has attended about 20 call-outs between the expected New Year strike times.

WYFRS Assistant Chief Officer Dave Walton said: “Whilst we are confident that our contingency plans will once again prove effective, we are mindful that we will be experiencing reduced cover during a risky period. Please do your bit to help us by looking after friends and family, staying safe on the roads and reducing fire risks in your home.”

The force, alongside North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire and Humberside Fire and Rescue Services, is offering winter safety guidance. A further FBU strike is scheduled for Friday between 6.30am and 8.30am. For safety advice visit www.takeextracare.co.uk.