Essex fire services ‘at risk’ of cuts

Essex Fire and Rescue says vital safety programmes could be at risk if they have to accept the outcome of a goverment funding review. The service is anticipating a possible £5 million reduction in the money it receives, but says it will protect its 999 response.

However, prevention work like smoke alarms, road and water safety can't be guarenteed.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government says "no final decisions have been made and these figures should be treated with caution".

Picture credit: Essex County Fire and Rescue Service.