Firefighters have started a four-day strike in their row over pensions and Cambridgeshire’s fire chief has urged people to take extra care.

The latest walkout started at 6pm this evening and will continue until 6pm on Tuesday.

Graham Stagg, the county’s chief fire officer, has warned there is likely to be a delayed response to emergency call-outs during the industrial action by the Fire Brigades Union.

He said: “Whilst we want the public to enjoy Hallowe’en and firework celebrations, we are urging people to take extra care.

“We’re advising families to attend professionally organised firework displays rather than setting fireworks off in their garden.

“If you choose to have fireworks at home, please be extra careful because if something goes wrong, we’re likely to be delayed in attending because of our reduced cover across the county.”

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service’s back-up plans to cover those on strike will ensure 999 calls are responded to.

But the continuous nature of the strike means the level of service will be reduced compared to what has been in place during previous walkouts.

Mr Stagg added: “This four-day continuous strike is different to any of the others that have taken place over the past year.

“To provide fire cover throughout this period is challenging and there is a higher risk this weekend because of Halloween and Bonfire Night.

“So please, make friends and family aware of the impact the industrial action could have on them should a fire start, and urge them to take extra care on the road, in the home and when out enjoying the festivities.”