Communities across the north of Scotland have been urged to play their part in keeping the countryside safe as wildfire season approaches.
The new chairman of the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF), Andy Coueslant, said it was everyone’s responsibility to protect where they live from potentially devastating blazes as demand on the fire service begins to increase.
Mr Coueslant – deputy assistant chief officer of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service – recently took over as leader of the organisation, and yesterday said he was committed to ensuring that the rate of open air blazes continues to fall – in 2014 there was a 61% reduction in wildfires across Scotland, saving £278,000.
With many blazes started deliberately due to “careless, reckless or irresponsible behaviour”, he said, it is essential that every precaution is taken.
“As we are now entering what has historically been seen as wildfire season I am keen to stress that everyone has a responsibility to protect our countryside, people and property for the devastating effects of wildfire,” he said.
“We want people to Join Scotland’s Fight Against Fire and we are urging communities, tourists and visitors to be aware of the heightened risk of wildfire at this time of year.”
Mr Coueslant said there were a number of “proactive” steps land owners could take to help prevent wildfires, including strict adherence to the Muirburn Code, which applies to the controlled burning of heather.
He said it was also essential to properly dispose of smoking materials to prevent fires happening in the first place.
“When wildfires occur they have a serious impact on rural and remote areas of Scotland and have the potential to cause significant environmental and economic damage,” he said.
“It is important we all do what we can to protect farmland and wildlife, protected woodland and Sites of Special Scientific Interest, buildings, property and the lives of those who live in rural communities.”
For further advice and information visit www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/wildfires.aspx