GLOUCESTERSHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is reassuring residents to be aware but not concerned during the national fire strike on Saturday.

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has called for its members to engage in industrial action in a row over pensions and are striking from 10am to 5pm.

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

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.”

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

Fires can start for a variety of reasons, from cooking being left unattended, to electrical faults or candles being placed too close to furnishings.

The best advice is for everyone to ensure they have a smoke alarm in their home and to check the battery is working at least once a week.

For information and advice, visit glosfire.gov.uk or direct.gov.uk/firekills.

Cllr 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.”