Firefighters in Oxfordshire could strike from 6pm on November 13 after union leaders dismissed the results of an independent review as derisory and insulting.

Bob Burrell, Oxfordshire branch secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, said the strike would go ahead unless Local Government Association employers made a better offer at a national meeting today.

He said: "Time is getting tight, and an offer of 16 per cent would at least be a good starting point for negotiations.

"We are genuinely concerned about the adequacy of the military in providing emergency fire cover for the people of Oxfordshire."

The review, commissioned by the Government, has recommended firefighters receive an 11 per cent wage rise, linked to reformed working practices.

But calling for a 16 per cent rise, the FBU warned strike action could follow tomorrow, when a two-day stoppage is planned.

The county's chief fire officer John Parry has urged people to fit smoke detectors to their homes, and said drivers should take extra care on the roads.

The suggested 11 per cent offer from Sir George Bain's long-awaited independent report, comprises a four per cent rise this year, followed by seven per cent in 2003.

It falls far short of the 40 per cent increase the firefighters were demanding.

FBU leader Andy Gilchrist said: "To offer four per cent, which was refused earlier, is derisory and insulting.

"I don't consider 11 per cent over two years to be either substantial or significant."

But Fire Service minister Nick Raynsford said he regarded the proposals as an exciting, far-reaching package.

The FBU must now decide if talks should continue, or if a walkout should take place on November 13.

Three more strikes are also being planned.

The first scheduled strike was cancelled at the end of last month following negotiations.