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Use caution when visiting the countryside during dry periods

We’re urging anyone who is planning to visit the countryside to help save lives, wildlife, and property by exercising extreme caution.

This call to ‘Respect, Protect and Enjoy’ come after fire crews have contended with several wildfires across the country, including one in Galloway Forest Park, and as the spell of hot, dry weather continues.

A map showing a large burned area of land.
A large burnt area caused by the fire in Galloway Forest Park earlier this week. Credit: OpenStreetMap.

A wildfire can emerge from one stray spark. We are urging visitors to refrain from lighting campfires, to make sure that cigarettes are properly extinguished and to use a camping stove or gas barbecue rather than disposable barbecues. 

“Camping stoves must be as stable as possible and on a level and preferably fire-resistant surface. They should also be kept well away from any flammable material,” says our Director of Land Management and Regions, Graeme Prest. 

Two photos showing a grass fire possibly started by cigarette.
A grass fire that was likely started due to a disposed cigarette.

“Nobody can fail to be aware that with the extended period of hot, sunny weather and less than the usual rainfall, the risk of wildfire is significantly higher than normal’, says Graeme. 

Wildfires can spread very quickly and put people at significant risk, whether those people are the fire crews and support teams attending or those members of the public who rely on a swift response in emergency situations at home or on the roads.

“Fire service crews are dedicated people who make every effort to be where they are needed, when they are needed.

“They will always be better able to rise to that challenge and do their job to the best of their ability when they do not have to divert their resources to avoidable fires. Everyone needs to bear that in mind, to not take any risks with fire and always be vigilant.”

Anyone planning to visit the countryside during this extended dry spell needs to do their bit, abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and be sensible.

“And if you do see a wildfire, call 999 immediately”, says Graeme.