CHESHIRE Fire Service has warned residents to be extra vigilant as firefighters prepare for a series of strikes in the town.

Members of the Fire Brigade Union have announced that more walkouts are to take place in the coming weeks following a bitter dispute with the Government over pensions.

Firefighters are set to take industrial action for three hours each day from August 9 to August 16 between 12pm and 2pm and 22.59pm and 23.59pm.

Chief fire officer, Paul Hancock, said: “It is important to highlight that the strikes being proposed relate to national issues rather than local ones and that action will only be taken by those staff that are members of the Fire Brigade’s Union.

“We do have plans and procedures in place that will enable us to continue to protect the communities of Cheshire during strike periods.

“However, we will have fewer fire engines available and so we would encourage everyone to take extra care both in the home and out and about on the roads, to keep themselves and their families safe.”

Residents have been urged to check smoke alarms are in working order and to be extra careful when cooking and driving during the eight-day strike period.

For more information visit cheshirefire.gov.uk.