A PROFESSIONAL service will be maintained in Gloucestershire during the three-day national strike, the fire service has promised.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for industrial action over pensions tomorrow from noon to 5pm, Saturday from 2pm until 2am and Sunday from 10am to 3pm.

About 130 staff and a smaller number of retained firefighters in the county are members of the FBU and could support the strike.

Chief Fire Officer Stewart Edgar, of Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We have contingency plans in place in the county, which have been proven to be effective in previous strikes.

“We would never be complacent however, I would urge residents and business owners to remain vigilant and make sure they do everything they can to stay safe in their homes or workplace.”

Meanwhile, residents are being encouraged to take steps to ensure their families are safe at home.

The service is advising people to ensure they have a smoke alarm in their home and to check the battery is working at least once a week and avoid making unnecessary 999 calls.

Councillor Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for fire, planning and infrastructure, said: “This isn’t our fight, but we’ve made sure that we are fully prepared for any industrial action.

"It’s still very important that local people are aware of how best to stay safe from fires and what to do in case of an emergency.”

Further arrangements have been made for potential large-scale incidents, including sharing resources of neighbouring services.