SOUTH Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) is urging people to be ‘extra vigilant’ with their safety during today’s industrial action.

The Fire Brigades Union strike will take place between 9am today and 9am tomorrow.

Another seven-hour strike is planned for Saturday June 21, between 10am and 5pm.

Assistant chief fire officer, Rod Hammerton, said: “South Wales Fire and Rescue Authority understand why staff are taking industrial action but we have a duty to do all that we reasonably can to make sure the people and communities of South Wales remain protected”.

“During these periods we urge our communities to be extra vigilant as they go about their business. During strikes we will continue to provide fire cover but it will not be anywhere near the normal levels. The first period of industrial action commencing the 12th June is for a 24 hour period which has the potential to stretch resources even further but the public can be assured life critical incidents will be responded to as a priority”.