There are over 100 fewer firefighters in Hertfordshire than a decade ago, as unions warn of 'complacency'.
Home Office figures show there were 655 firefighters at Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service last year.
This represented a 15% fall from 769 in 2011.
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Speaking on the decline in firefighter numbers nationally, Fire Brigades Union national officer Riccardo la Torre said: “That is outrageous complacency in the face of rapidly rising temperatures.
“Put simply, further heatwaves will result in more wildfires, and the fire and rescue service is unlikely to be able to cope.”
A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “There has been increased financial pressure on fire and rescue services over the last decade, and as such we have reviewed staff numbers.
“We’re actually trying to increase firefighter numbers at the moment, and we have 34 new recruits starting their basic training in September this year.
“This will be the largest ever single intake of new firefighters for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and clearly demonstrates our drive to keep residents safe.”
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