Operation Fresco

Operation Fresco

Operation Fresco or Op FRESCO was the codename for the provision of basic emergency cover during the UK firefighter dispute 2002-2003 by civilian firefighters in the United Kingdom, in late 2002 and early 2003. The response to the industrial action was coordinated by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Personnel from all three armed forces were trained and prepared to provide basic emergency cover.

Strike dates

The main strike dates were:

  • Wednesday November 13, 2002 until Friday November 15, 2002
  • Friday November 22, 2002 until Saturday November 30, 2002
  • Tuesday January 21, 2003 and Wednesday January 22, 2003
  • Tuesday January 28, 2003 until Thursday January 30, 2003
  • Saturday February 1, 2003 until Monday February 3, 2003
  • Wednesday March 19, 2003 until Saturday March 22, 2003