THE Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service say “robust contingency plans” will be in place for when members of the Fire Brigades Union take strike action from noon until 4pm on Wednesday, September 25.

Service chiefs insist it will be “business as usual” during this four-hour period.

The strike is part of a national trade dispute with government in relation to the reform of fire service pension schemes.

However, Asst Chief Fire Officer Chris Davies is urging residents and businesses within Mid and West Wales to take extra care and ensure they are fire and road safety aware.

“While we appreciate the concerns some of our staff have in respect of proposed government cuts to pensions our number-one priority is to ensure public safety,” he said.

“Our contingency planning is going well and we are fortunate to have a number of operational staff who are not affiliated with the Fire Brigades Union and will be working as usual during this period of action.

However, I would encourage residents to take extra care by familiarising themselves with our safety advice which is available on our website.”