The Scottish Executive said the fire service was concentrating prevention work on areas at the greatest risk, with "higher-risk premises" such as hotels and pubs receiving more in-depth and rigorous inspections than ever before.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Scotland | Row over fire inspections 'fall'

The 96-hour shifts are among proposals being considered by the fire authority, including cutting back on community fire prevention visits and reducing crew numbers at Somerset stations to match how Devon operates.

BBC: Devon and Somerset firefighters face 96-hour shifts