FIREFIGHTERS to strike over rows about retirement age and pensions.
While firework displays begin across the county and rush hour commuters make their way home firefighters will be putting down their hoses and locking up stations.
The strike, by members of the Fire Brigades' Union, is due to take place between 6.30pm and 11.00pm today.
The industrial action is part of a national dispute over Government pension reforms.
The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service urged motorists to take extra care.
On previous occasions they have asked people to get takeaways rather than cook.
The service will not be responding to automatic alarms so anyone with a fire needs to call 999.
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