The following is from Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service and Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Authority.
 
FIRE BRIGADES UNION (FBU) ANNOUNCE FURTHER PERIOD OF INDUSTRIAL ACTION
 
Following the result of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) national ballot for strike action, Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) has received notification that FBU members will take further strike action on:
 
Wednesday 13 November 2013 from 10am hours until 2pm hours
 
During times of industrial action, DFRS will continue to provide an emergency response service, albeit at a reduced level.  DFRS is once again calling upon Derbyshire communities to take extra care and endeavour to prevent further emergencies from occurring during any period of industrial action.  
 
Communities are asked to provide the first wall of defence, protecting their loved ones from the risks of fire and taking responsibility for their own safety as outlined in the Community Contract launched earlier this year.
 
Area Manager Bryan Bennett, spokesperson for DFRS, said: “Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service will still be responding to 999 calls albeit at a reduced level.  Once again we are asking members of the public to take extra steps to reduce the risk of a fire breaking out in their home and to take extra care when driving on the roads during this time.  
 
“Fire can start for a variety of reasons, from cooking being left unattended, to electrical faults or candles being placed too close to furnishings.  It is essential that everyone ensures that they have a working smoke alarm fitted on every level of their home, to provide vital early warning of a fire and give occupants crucial time to escape.
 
“I would urge everyone to visit our website, www.derbys-fire.gov.uk where there is a wealth of fire safety advice and information available.”
 
If you do have a fire do not try to tackle this yourself, get out, stay out and call 999, we will respond.
 
DFRS would like to reiterate that everyone needs to take extra care to prevent emergencies from occurring during the strike period, whether at home, travelling or whilst at work.
 
All details relating to strike dates and times will be uploaded and amended as necessary on the Service website, www.derbys-fire.gov.uk