FIRE bosses claim lives will be put at risk if firefighters go ahead with strikes planned for next week. With cover not being provided for striking firefighters, fears are growing that the public s safety could be jeopardised. Hertfordshire County Council

FIRE bosses claim lives will be put at risk if firefighters go ahead with strikes planned for next week.

With cover not being provided for striking firefighters, fears are growing that the public's safety could be jeopardised.

Hertfordshire County Council said it is "shocked" and "dismayed" by fire union plans to strike on Monday and Saturday and have said there will only be a very limited emergency fire and rescue cover.

The decision to strike has been slammed by Hertfordshire County Council which says it will put residents' lives in danger.

But Herts Fire Brigade Union say the planned cuts will also make the public less safe 365 days a year for years to come.

Chief fire officer Roy Wilsher said: "There is no denying that we will not be able to provide the same level of service we usually do and I would ask residents to be vigilant."

Members of the public are still being advised to call 999 in an emergency but fire bosses are advising the public to be extra careful.

Further talks between the union and Herts County Council are being held this week, which, it is hoped, will avert strike action.