The fire brigade in Essex is set to go through a five-year programme of change.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) wants residents’ views on its 2020 Programme.

Although it does not contain details, a background report shows the number of emergency call-outs is falling.

Specific ideas for change will be released over the coming months.

ECFRS says change is needed as between 2004-2014 the number of incidents attended fell by 50%, down to 38 per day last year – of which only 23 require action, with the others false alarms or acting in a stand-by capacity.

The reduction has been put down to a rise in the preventative work the brigade carries out.

The Essex Fire Brigades’ Union (FBU) has previously raised concerns that the blueprint could lead to job losses.

The programme may also help to deliver savings, with ECFRS anticipating losing up to £15million in government funding over the next five years.

As well as changing the way the service works operationally, ECFRS also wants to change its internal values in the wake of ongoing disputes with the FBU and a police investigation into historical abuse claims.

An ECFRS spokesman said: “The aim of is to provide important information to help develop understanding so the public can respond in an informed and meaningful way as we bring our ideas and plans for consultation over the coming months.

“We are keen the public understands the context in which we work, what the future may hold and how we plan to develop a different focus to make our organisation fit for the future and strong to face the upcoming challenges.

“All this, while maintaining the best possible service to all of our communities throughout the county.”

To have your say call 01376 570814, online at www.essex-fire.gov.uk or by emailing mailbox.2020@essex-fire.gov.uk, on the ECFRS Facebook page or on Twitter with the hashtag #TELLECFRS, or by writing to 2020 Programme Office, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, Service Headquarters, Kelvedon Park, London Road, Rivenhall, CM8 3HB.