FIREFIGHTERS across the borough will be striking for 24 hours from 7am on Wednesday (February 25).

Crew members from West Midlands Fire Service (WMFS) are taking industrial action as part of a national dispute with the Government over changes to firefighters’ pensions.

The service is insisting to the public that it will still provide the “maximum level of protection possible” during the strike.

Area Commander Simon Shilton, emergency response with WMFS, said: “We’re asking people to make safety an even higher priority than usual during the strike period.

“We’d ask people to keep an eye on safety at all times, and to do what they can to make sure that vulnerable family members, friends or neighbours are safe and aware that the strike is taking place.

“We’re working hard to ensure that we can provide the best emergency response cover possible, using operational staff who won’t be on strike. Clearly, we hope that this national dispute can be resolved as quickly as possible.

“In the meantime, everyone can play a part in helping to minimise demand on the fewer resources we will have available.

“Most house fires are preventable, and the public can make a huge contribution to their own safety.

“Using basic common sense at home, on the roads and at work can make the difference between needing our help or not.”

Safety advice is available in the Stay Safe section of the fire service’s website at www.wmfs.net/content/stay-safe