Londoners are being urged to cancel plans for “amateur” firework displays this Friday because of a planned national strike by the Fire Brigades Union.
Firefighters are striking over UK Government plans to extend the age at which they can retire on a full pension.
The strike is planned to take place from 6.30pm until 11pm on Friday, ahead of Guy Fawkes Night and Diwali celebrations.
The Fire Brigades Union is also taking strike action on Monday, 4 November between 6am and 8am.
The London Fire Brigade says Friday is likely to be one of its busiest days of the year and is urging people to cancel any firework displays or parties and instead attend official organised displays.
Although there will be emergency cover across the capital during the strike, the Fire Brigade says it not be able to match normal service levels and response times.
Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson said: “Fireworks cause serious fires each year and bonfires can quickly get out of control which is why we’re urging people to attend organised displays on Strike Friday.
“During the strike we will have a contingency fire and rescue service of 27 fire engines, crewed by temporary firefighters. Serious emergencies will be attended, but smaller incidents won’t so we are calling on the public not to put themselves at risk by lighting fireworks and bonfires.”