A strong warning has been issued over the increased risk of wildfire across most parts of Scotland over the next few days.
The Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF) said it was raising awareness as weather forecasters predict very dry conditions.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service deputy assistant chief officer Andy Coueslant, chair of the SWF, added:”Raising awareness is key to reducing the risk.
“Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant environmental and economic damage.
“Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires – as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities.
“Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting so it’s crucial people act safely and responsibly in rural environments and follow the countryside code.”
Forum vice chair Michael Bruce said: “At the start of spring there is often a lot of dead vegetation leftover from last year. “This fuel can dry out quickly when there is overnight frost, followed by sunny days with higher temperatures and lower humidity levels. “We have a high pressure weather system developing across Scotland creating these conditions at the moment.”
Mr Bruce monitors the European Commission’s European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS). It provides vital information which can be used to inform the public about the risk of wildfire.
It is now the time of year when the risk of wildfire is at its highest and The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is already working closely with land managers and appealing to tourists and communities to help reduce the number fires in a bid to protect the countryside and its residents.
The public can help prevent wildfires by making sure they dispose of litter and smoking materials carefully while in rural areas. For further advice and information about wildfires and how to prevent them visit www.firescotland.gov.uk
The SFRS website has a link to the Muirburn Code and there is more advice in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
