Striking firefighters issue warning over fireworks displays

The fire brigade has urged people to cancel their own plans for firework displays on Friday and attend an organised event instead because of a planned strike by firefighters. Source: Press Association.

Members of the Fire Brigades Union in England and Wales will walk out on Friday 1 November from 6.30pm to 11pm in a long-running dispute with the Government over pensions.

A second strike will be held for two hours from 6am on Monday November 4, the day before Bonfire Night.

The London Fire Brigade said Friday was likely to be one of the busiest days of the year for the fire service, ahead of Guy Fawkes Night and Diwali celebrations.

London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson said: "Fireworks cause serious fires each year and bonfires can quickly get out of control, which is why we're urging people to attend organised displays on Friday.

"During the strike we will have a contingency fire and rescue service of 27 fire engines, crewed by temporary firefighters. Serious emergencies will be attended, but smaller incidents won't so we are calling on the public not to put themselves at risk by lighting fireworks and bonfires."

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