MOTORISTS are being urged to take extra care on the roads today as firefighters go on strike.
Dozens of firefighters in Derbyshire will walk out on strike between noon and 4pm in a row over reforms to their pension and retirement ages.
The county's fire and rescue service has recruited 32 volunteers to help it cope, in addition to the civilian "reserve" firefighters who have pledged to work.
But the service has confirmed that its capability to respond to emergencies will be reduced.
As a result, motorists are being asked to help to prevent emergencies from occurring.
Area manager Bryan Bennett said: "While the industrial action is on-going, Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service will still be responding to 999 calls.
"But we are asking members of the public to take extra care when driving on the roads during this time so that accidents can be afforded."
The strike is over Government plans which would mean firefighters in England getting their full pension at 60, instead of the current 55.
The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) says that many firefighters would not be able to maintain fitness standards into their late-50s and this would endanger the public.
Under the plans, those retiring early at, for example, 55 would lose thousands of pounds a year, the FBU says.
Fire Minister Brandon Lewis has said that the decision by the FBU to take strike action was "entirely unnecessary and avoidable". He said: "After two years of discussions, and with improved terms, the pension on offer to firefighters is one of the most generous public service pensions available.
"A firefighter who earns £29,000 and retires after a full career aged 60 will get a £19,000-a-year pension, rising to £26,000 with the state pension.
"To get the same pension from a private scheme, firefighters would have to contribute twice as much."
Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service is also urging businesses to stay focused on the safety of their staff and premises during today's strike,
Bosses are being told to reduce fire hazards by keep sources of ignition well away from flammable materials or substances, asking staff to be vigilant to the risk of fire and to keep escape routes free.
Fire doors should be kept shut and electrical equipment should be switched off when not in use.
Firms are also being asked to ensure their fire detection system is working effectively and everyone in the building understands what they need to do should it activate.
Bosses are also asked to take "special care" to minimise the possibility of a false alarm.
For more information about fire safety and for advice, go to www.derbys-fire gov.uk or, alternatively, visit the Derby and Derbyshire Road Safety Partnership website at www.saferroadsderby shire.org.uk.
