Firefighters in Argyllshire issue ‘no flames’ warning during extreme wildfire alert
Firefighters in Argyllshire are urging people to avoid the use of naked flames outdoors as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has issued an extreme risk of wildfire for all areas of Scotland.
The extreme danger assessment, released in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF), remains in place from Thursday, 15 May until Monday, 19 May.
The warning comes as the country is set to enjoy sunshine over the weekend with many people looking to get outdoors and visit Scotland’s national parks.
Wildfires have the potential to burn for days and devastate vast areas of land and wildlife; and threaten the welfare of nearby communities
The vast majority of wildfires are started by human behaviour and the SFRS is urging communities to avoid lighting fires and using naked flames while this warning is in place.
The SFRS joined representatives from Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, Police Scotland and West Dunbartonshire Council to share safety advice to help people and communities to stay safe.
Area Commander Joe McKay is SFRS Local Senior Officer for East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute.
He said: "Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting.
“Many people are out enjoying this weather and are visiting our national parks. While we don’t want to spoil their fun, we are urging people to absolutely avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, at this time.
It only takes one spark to start a wildfire, and things can get out of hand very, very quickly.
"Discarded cigarettes and unsupervised campfires pose a significant threat, so it's vital to follow all safety advice when outdoors and to make sure you are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times.”
Area Commander McKay added: "Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant 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.
"These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of air polluting gases into the atmosphere."
Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said:
“The recent wildfires in the National Park highlight the devastating impact a single reckless act can have. A carelessly discarded barbecue or cigarette can destroy precious ecosystems, as well as lives and livelihoods. At this early stage in the season, we have also already seen an unprecedented number of bin fires and significant damage to visitor facilities including bins and picnic tables across our sites.
“As we face drier, more fire-prone conditions, we urge everyone to act responsibly. During high-risk periods, please avoid using any naked flames, including disposable barbecues, and ensure waste is properly disposed of. We also encourage anyone who witnesses a rural wildfire to immediately call 999 - never assume someone else has done so.”
Chief Inspector Simon Shanks, Local Area Commander for Police Scotland said:
“As the good weather continues, we are working with our partners to encourage everyone to stay safe and behave responsibly.
“We want everyone to enjoy the local area and be safe. Please make sure you are aware of wildfire guidance and safety around open water. Take home any litter and be respectful to others at all times.”
Chief Officer of Housing, Peter Barry said:
“We fully support the efforts by our partners to educate about the risks of wildfires and are ready to provide assistance where required.
“While we are enjoying the sunshine, this prolonged period of dry weather brings significant risks, and it is imperative upon every one of us to ensure we are taking all steps necessary to minimise the risk of wildfires.”
New guidance will be shared and communicated across key areas of the National Park, including visitor hotspots, to help spread the message that everyone has a role to play in protecting Scotland’s precious natural spaces.
The SFRS has an array of wildfire prevention and safety advice on its website.
You can learn more about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code online.
ENDS