FIREFIGHTERS across Sussex are to go on strike for 24 hours from 7am this morning.

The Fire Brigades Union national strike - on Wednesday February 25 - is part of the ongoing dispute with the Government over pensions.

Contingency crews will be on duty but there will be less cover.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service Chief Executive Des Prichard said it might take crews “slightly longer” to get to calls and warned the public to be vigilant.

He said: “Please remember also to be safe in your own homes – make sure you test your smoke alarm, make sure the batteries are working, make sure the smoke alarm is working.

“Please be careful, please stay safe. Make sure you extinguish all cigarettes.

“Remember if you need the fire and rescue service, dial 999 and we will respond.”

FBU held its first 24-hour strike over pension plans in June last year.

The dispute centres on Government plans to raise firefighters' retirement age from 55 to 60 and increase their pension contributions.