Firefighters' strike 'irresponsible' says Wolverhampton MP

Members of the Fire Brigades Union will go on strike from 6pm on Friday evening until 6pm on Tuesday in the latest round of industrial action over a pension reform row.

This weekend is normally one of the busiest times of the year for the fire service.

Wolverhampton South West MP Paul Uppal said: "The fire service do a tremendous job but this strike action could not come on a worse possible date. Everyone knows that bonfire weekend is a time where families and friends come together - this strike will cause concern and disruption amongst my constituents hoping to enjoy themselves. On one of the busiest weekends for the fire service the timing is frankly irresponsible."

Should firefighters be striking when thousands are attending bonfire and fireworks parties? Join in the debate below.

And South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson said: "I am sure all the firefighters, if there is a major incident, will be ready to respond, but it is disappointing a strike has been called at such a peak time when so many people across the region will be attending firework or bonfire shows. I am quite sure there is a time for all parties to get around the table and get together a sensible solution so a strike that nobody wants can be avoided, especially at this bonfire weekend."

A series of strikes have been held over the past 18 months in protest at changes to pensions and the retirement age, which the union has claimed could lead to firefighters losing their job if they fail fitness tests in their late 50s.

In Wales the strike has been averted because of developments between the union and the Welsh government.

A statement said: "While the Westminster government continue to ignore the concerns raised by firefighters, the Welsh government have now suggested an improved proposal that could significantly improve the position for a large number of firefighters in Wales. This would involve altering the way firefighters could choose to retire before the age of 60."

West Midlands and Staffordshire fire services are warning people planning bonfire and fireworks parties this weekend to make safety their top priority.

Area Commander Simon Shilton said: "We're asking people to take extra care if they're making Hallowe'en pumpkin lanterns, or looking forward to bonfires and fireworks.

"We're not asking them to cancel their private parties or public events, but they must be extra careful and have in place all the safety measures they can.

"We'd ask people not to build or stockpile material for bonfires at home. The best option is to go to an officially organised public event. However, even then, people need to bear in mind that we will have fewer fire engines available throughout this weekend, meaning it could take us longer than usual to attend incidents. Organisers should make sure they have every possible precaution in place."

Staffordshire's Glynn Luznyj said: ""We would urge people to attend organised events that have to comply with stringent health, safety and legal requirements and to avoid throwing their own parties which, if things go wrong, can quickly get out of hand. The majority of injuries caused by fireworks happen at family or private parties."