FIRE chiefs are calling on residents to take extra care at home and on the roads this weekend as members of the Fire Brigades Union walk out for 96 hours ahead of Bonfire Night.

The industrial action starts at 6pm on Friday and finishes at 6pm on Tuesday as a row over pensions rumbles on.

Union officials have accused the Government of refusing to put forward any new offer despite two months of talks while Fire Minister Penny Mordaunt said the strike action was 'completely unnecessary'.

Paul Hancock, chief  fire officer for Cheshire, said plans were in place during the national strike but urged residents to be vigilant.

He added: "As we do have less fire engines available we would once again encourage everyone to take extra care during the strike.

“It is especially important to be extra vigilant as this strike action falls within the service’s bonfire period, which is traditionally a very busy time for fire crews.

"As always, we would urge people to only attend organised bonfire and firework displays and urge groups to consider not holding bonfire and firework displays over the weekend as there will be less fire engines available should there be an issue.”