Devon Fire and Rescue Service is writing to every household in the county to remind them of safety issues ahead of strike action.

Employers are also being warned that automatic alarm call systems will be out of action during the strike.

It is still not known how many firefighters will be on strike in the county and what resources will remain in place.

In the meantime, the service said it is doing what it can to ensure householders and employers protect their property as best they can.

Contingency arrangements are in place to provide emergency fire cover

Neil Gibbins

The series of strikes is being held as part of a campaign by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) for a pay rise of 40%.

Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott has said the proposed strikes are "completely unnecessary and completely unjustified" and has urged the FBU to "think again".

The army, backed by smaller numbers of Royal Navy and RAF personnel, is on stand-by to provide cover with Green Goddess fire engines.

All alarms that usually go through to the Devon control room will be switched off as from midnight on Thursday and remain out of action until the pay dispute is settled.

Property protection

Devon Fire and Rescue is sending out an information leaflet giving details about how to fit smoke alarms and what to do in the event of fire.

Devon's retained firefighters will not be taking part in the strike.

The county's senior fire safety officer, Neil Gibbins, said: "Contingency arrangements are in place to provide emergency fire cover, fire safety enforcement and arson investigation."

Advice on how to protect property is available from the fire service helpline on 01392 872288 and its website.