THE public has been warned not to make unnecessary 999 calls during this weekend's industrial action.

Hereford and Worcester Fire & Rescue Service (HWFRS) is urging members of the public not to make unnecessary 999 calls during this weekend’s period of industrial action.

HWFRS will be providing reduced emergency cover during the strike called by the Fire Brigades Union – which starts today (Friday) at 6pm and continues until 6pm on Tuesday, November 4 – so is asking for help from the local community.

Area Commander Keith Chance, Head of Operations Support for Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Whilst the industrial action is on-going we will still be responding to emergency calls, but we are asking people to only call 999 if they really do need a fire engine.

“Our priority during the strike is to respond to those calls where a life may be at risk or someone needs to be rescued. If we respond to non-emergency calls then our response to those most in need could jeopardised.’

“A non-emergency call could be to someone who is locked outside their house or where debris has fallen in the road. There are other agencies and organisations that can help in this instance.”

Area Commander Chance said: “We do find ourselves in an unusual situation where we must prioritise our calls for those who are most in need of our assistance. However, I must emphasise that you should still call 999 in an emergency so that an experienced control room operator can deal with your situation. You must not try and call your local fire station directly.”