Brighton and Hove firefighters to strike today in national pensions dispute

Firefighters in Brighton and Hove are due to go on strike today (Saturday 21 June) in a national dispute over pensions.

The seven-hour stoppage, called by the Fire Brigades Union, is timed to start at 10am.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “While the service will be able to respond to life-threatening emergencies, cover will be reduced and the public are being urged to do all they can to help stay safe.

“Saturdays are often busy on the roads in East Sussex and the city of Brighton and Hove.

“Motorists heading off to the shops, on visits or running the family around share the roads with cyclists and motorbikers.”

Chief fire officer Des Prichard said: “Please don’t be tempted to drive if you have had a drink.

“Alcohol will slow down your reaction time and taking a risk on driving if you have had alcohol is irresponsible and incredibly dangerous.

“Sussex Police are in the middle of their summer drink drive campaign so don’t take the risk.

“And can we finally remind drivers not to use their mobile telephones or text messages when driving.

“There are an increasing number of accidents due to people reading and sending text messages when driving.

“Please don’t do this. It is highly dangerous and can lead to serious injuries and people being killed.

“We won’t have as many crews available as usual and so cover will be reduced.

“Our advice remains the same if you do have a fire – get out, stay out and dial 999.”

The fire service said that safety advice could be found at www.esfrs.org.