From BBC News >> Firefighter's Dispute

12 November: Firefighters will go ahead with a national strike on Wednesday after their union rejects an 11% pay offer. New strike dates: 13-14 November, 22-30 November, 4-12 December, 16-24 December. More

On Friday 18th October firefighters voted to walk out on a series of six national strikes - the first for 25 years.

So what sort of cover will we have?
The south east (Kent and Sussex) will have 34 green goddesses to cover the whole area. The fastest they can go is 50mph and they do not have any cutting equipment, resuscitation gear or breathing apparatus.

What about the non-striking firefighters?
There are two unions - the Fire Brigade Union, who are striking, and the Retained Firefighters Union - who aren't.

However fewer than 10 per cent of firefighters in Kent belong to the retained union, and even those who do, are likely not to cross picket lines.

What will be affected?
The channel tunnel will remain open - more staff have been trained to evacuate trains and the French will cover any fires.

Trains in the region will mainly operate as normal

It's bonfire night and fireworks season during the strikes - many events may be cancelled. Check with your local council for details.

Advice from the Kent Fire Brigade
The Kent Fire Brigade have put together a check list to help reduce the numbers of emergency calls during the strikes. This will help you stay safe at all other times too, of course. The list includes planning an escape route, closing doors at night and checking smoke alarms.

Also have a look at the Kids section. You may discover some other precautions you could be taking to keep yourself, family and possessions from going up in flames.

Kent Fire Brigade: www.kent.fire-uk.org
Fire Safety advice: www.firekills.gov.uk
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