Emergency fire crews drafted in during a union strike in Hertfordshire recieved almost 200 calls in 90 hours.

The Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service resilience crews recieved 197 calls and attended 57 incidents when the Fire Brigade Union took industrial action between October 31 and November 4.

Incidents attended included traffic collisions and house fires, as well as rescuing people trapped in lifts and assisting vulnerable residents who had been locked out of their homes.

Roy Wilsher, chief fire officer and director of community protection, said: “The contingency arrangements are not a replacement fire service so I am pleased with how well the plans that we put in place have stood up throughout the strike despite it taking place near bonfire night.

“I’d like to thank our contingency crews for their excellent commitment. Many have been away from their families for the full 96 hours with only limited rest periods and I’m grateful for their dedication to keeping the people of Hertfordshire safe.”

During the strike period – which is the result of an ongoing dispute between the FBU and the government over pensions and working conditions – there were seven full-time fire engines available supported by around four retained fire engines.

For fire safety and prevention advice visit www.hertsdirect.org/fire or call 0300 123 4046.