THE MID and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) have set up a critical incident team to monitor and respond to the Coronavirus outbreak.

The fire service say they are monitoring guidance issued by the UK Government and Public Health Wales over the outbreak.

Following the advice, they are scaling back some services in order to prioritise front-line operational and support staff.

They will respond immediately to any emergency immediately.

A spokesman for the fire service said: "The Service has set up a Critical Incident Team, which is meeting on a daily basis to ensure that we are in the best possible position to evaluate all the information being forwarded.

"The continued effective functioning of the Service and the welfare of front-line operational and support staff is a priority and the Service, consistent with Welsh Government advice, has moved to the Delay phase.

"As a result, we are now prioritising our front-line operational response capability, and scaling back some non-statutory services.

"Those who are affected by this will be contacted shortly to ensure that, where possible, suitable alternative work is found.

"We want to reassure you that in an emergency, should you need the Fire and Rescue Service we will still respond immediately.

"We would also like to remind the public to ensure they follow all guidance issued by the UK Government and Public Health Wales in relation to Coronavirus (COVID-19) and ensure that they take all the necessary home safety advice available on our website.

"Thank you all for your understanding and continued support during these unprecedented challenging uncertainties."