FIREFIGHTERS are currently taking strike action as part of a national dispute with Government over pensions.

Members of the Fire Brigades Union are striking between midday and 2pm.

Working crews have been called to deal with two incidents during the first hour of strike action by FBU members.

They attended a false alarm in Tiptree, and a small fire in the open in Canvey which was out on arrival.

A spokesman for Essex Fire and Rescue said: “Essex has strong resilience arrangements in place and members of the public should continue to dial 999 in an emergency and working crews will respond.

“Businesses should follow up automatic alarms with a phone call to ensure a response during periods of reduced fire cover.”

A further one hour strike will take place this evening between 10:59pm and 11:59pm.

Strikes will be repeated twice a day between 12-1pm and 10:59-11:59pm - until next Saturday, August 16.