GLOUCESTERSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is reassuring communities it will maintain a professional service in the county during strike action this week.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for its members to engage in industrial action in a row over pensions with a 24-hour strike on Thursday from 9am until 9am on Friday and 10am to 5pm on Saturday, June 21 .

About 130 wholetime 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 said: “We have significant contingency plans in place in the county, which have been proven to be effective in previous strikes.

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

Residents are being encouraged to take steps to ensure their families are safe at home.

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

“But it is 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.”

For more information and advice, visit glosfire.gov.uk.