A four-day strike by firefighters is due to start this evening despite fireworks displays taking place this weekend.

Staff at Essex and London Brigade are set to walk out over a pension row at 6pm today until 6pm on November 4.

It will take place during annual Halloween parties and firework displays, which usually provide a busy time for the Fire Brigade.

London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson warned the public to take extra care.

He said: “I would much rather have the full fire and rescue service provided by our staff, professional London firefighters. 

“There will be 27 fire engines available across London but we will not be providing our usual service so people must take steps to prevent fires.

“Just last week, a stray firework caused a fire on scaffolding around a house in Brompton and on Saturday a firework was the suspected cause of a blaze that destroyed the balcony of a flat in Stratford.

“These incidents show how dangerous fireworks can be.

“I ask that you attend an organised firework show but if you are arranging your own display please carefully follow our fireworks code.

“I hope that the government and the Fire Brigade Union are able to resolve this dispute soon in order that the brigade can return to business as usual."