Fire chiefs in Cheshire say they can maintain improvements in public safety, despite facing £1 million funding cuts in 2016-17.
Members of the Fire Authority have been told to expect ongoing reductions in central Government funding.
It means savings of nearly £5.1 million will be needed over the next four years.
They agreed a new £42 million budget for Cheshire for 2016-17 and decided to increase the amount needed from local council tax by 1.99%.
It means the charge for a Band D home will be £71.86 – an increase of 2.7p a week or £1.40 a year.
Fire Authority Chair Cllr John Joyce said: “We know these are difficult times for many families.
“But this small increase combined with the major savings we have made are essential to ensure we can continue to provide communities across Cheshire with a first class fire and rescue service in the future.”
The fire authority has also approved a capital programme which includes funding £17.5 million cost of four new stations and a safety centre from grants and reserves, without the need for loans.
One new station at Alsager opened late 2015 while work is now underway on sites in Penketh and Powey Lane near the M56.
Other key projects include £1.14m for four new fire engines, £814,000 on new cutting gear used by crews in road accidents, £154,000 to replace two boats, trailers and vehicles for floods and water rescues, and £76,000 to replace and upgrade defibrillators on all fire engines.
Cheshire Fire Service Chief Fire Officer Paul Hancock added: “I am delighted despite the fact the authority is facing ongoing financial cuts, it has still agreed to invest in our frontline response and instead of closing stations, fund more.
“There are still big challenges ahead but the commitment to protecting local communities, reducing risk and maintaining firefighters’ safety is paramount.
“That is ensuring the overall number of fires in Cheshire continues to decline while injuries in accidental house fires remain at their lowest ever level.”
Citing that kind of cuts, “Saftey will be effective” even if not seen yet. It will rear its ugly head.