THE fire service is urging people not to make unnecessary 999 calls.

Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service is reminding members of the public that 999 is for emergency calls only in the light of current industrial disputes.

Chief Fire Officer Simon Routh-Jones said: “While the industrial action is ongoing, we will still respond to emergency calls, but we are asking people to only call us on 999 if they really do need a fire engine. “Our priority must be those calls where a life may be in danger – if we are responding to less vital incidents, then those most in need could be at greater risk.”

The Fire Brigades’ Union is in dispute with the Government over pensions, and strike action has been declared for Wednesday, September 25.

During this strike – which will run for four hours from midday – the service will face a challenge to meet its usual response standards, so it is asking local people to help where they can.

Examples of non-life urgent calls include being locked out of the house, burst pipes and stuck lifts.

Mr Routh-Jones added: “In normal circumstances, we are always happy to help where we can, but we cannot make the same commitment while our resources are stretched.

“There are other agencies and organisations which can help in such instances, although you may have to wait a bit longer.

“We will still respond to emergency calls, and if we cannot send someone to you straightaway, our experienced Control room operators will advise on what else you can do.”

A range of fire safety advice can be found at wiltsfire.gov.uk.