A fire brigade union has reacted angrily to claims council taxes will rise if firefighters win their pay dispute.

Householders in Carmarthenshire have been warned they could face an average increase of �31 if firefighters are awarded a 40% pay rise and the government does not foot the bill.

Firefighters have reacted angrily to the claims

The Fire Brigade Union (FBU) has said the figures are wrong.

Nick Dodd, the union's chair in Mid and West Wales, accused the council of spreading "nonsensical government propaganda".

Mr Dodd said: "According to government auditors the 16% presently being discussed would put just �5 on the average domestic rate.

"The full 40% claim would be the equivalent of a �20 average rate rise."

Meanwhile, some tourist operators in south west Wales tightened their fire safety precautions because of the strike.

The National Showcaves Centre for Wales, at Dan Yr Ogof in the Swansea Valley, has spent thousands of pounds on extra equipment and staff training.

Dan yr Ogof: Extra fire precautions

"We've brought in huge electrical pumps and fire hoses, and staff have been practising emergency drills," said owner Ashford Price.

"If there has been a problem in the past, the fire brigade has always been great and they have given us a lot of advice.

"All car park staff are now carrying fire extinguishers which they didn't have before.

"We have also noticed fewer cigarettes on the floor - the general public are being more aware and are being sensible about the situation."

Pembrokeshire council said it had issued general advise to all staff to be vigilant, and to turn off all electrical office equipment at the end of every day.