This in from the council, in their own words. Ed
Firefighters will walk out from 7am on 25 February, returning to work at 7am the following morning, in a continuing national dispute over pension reforms.
During the period of strike action, fire cover will be maintained on the Island by non-FBU members who will attend life-critical incidents such as house fires or road traffic incidents. Fire control will not be affected by the strike and will be operating as normal and people should continue to dial 999 in an emergency.
Do not to take unnecessary risks
Householders and businesses are advised not to take unnecessary risks during periods of strike action and make preparations to reduce their chances of needing assistance from the fire and rescue service. This includes taking extra care when cooking or smoking, checking that smoke alarms are working and knowing what to do in the event of a fire and sharing this knowledge with others.
Owners of non-residential premises are also being reminded to prepare by ensuring their legislative duties, such as fire risk assessments and fire safety management, are up to date.
Contingency plans in place
Councillor Phil Jordan, Executive member for public protection and PFI, said:
“It is disappointing that this dispute has continued for so long and that the government and FBU have failed to negotiate a satisfactory agreement.
“I would urge our residents to be extra careful and safety conscious during the period of the strike to reduce the necessity of having to call upon our emergency services at this very testing time. I am reassured by the contingency plans in place, however residents should be mindful of the reduced level of service that will be in operation.”
