Warning against causing deadly summer wildfires issued for Highland and Moray
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A FIRE safety warning has gone out to campers to prevent avoidable fires in the Scottish countryside as summer time approaches.
Warmer weather and the increased numbers of people visiting the countryside as pandemic restrictions ease create a greater risk of fire.
Not using candles in tents or never leaving camp fires unattended are just some of the tips being highlighted for a safer summer.
The advice from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) comes as new data shows the number of grass fires more than doubled in some parts of Scotland last summer, including Highland, Moray and Aberdeenshire.
A nationwide increase of 9 per cent was recorded, with incidents going up across Argyll & Bute, East and West Dunbartonshire, East Lothian, Midlothian and Scottish Borders, Edinburgh City, Stirling, Clackmannanshire and Fife, as well as Aberdeen City.
Between June 22 and August 24, 2020, fires affecting grassland, woodland and crops went up from 656 total incidents in 2019 to 712 in 2020.
Highland saw 65 outdoor fires during summer 2020, compared with 32 the previous summer.
For Moray and Aberdeenshire it was 65 also, compared with 27 the previous summer.
Many outdoor fires are started deliberately or are due to careless or irresponsible behaviour.
SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry, head of prevention and protection, said: “We want people to enjoy spending time outdoors, but it’s important to create a safe environment for you, your loved-ones and the surrounding environment because even small fires have the potential to turn into a wildfire.
“Before lighting any outdoor fires, check for any restrictions or permissions required by the landowner and make sure you use a fire safe pit or container that can be properly extinguished before you leave.
“The vast majority of us wish to keep our country beautiful, but litter can seriously injure wildlife and items such as glass bottles in strong sunlight have the potential to start a fire.
“Remember to keep your area tidy and always clear up when done.”
Mr Perry added that there are also other dangers associated with camping.
“Be aware that fire destroys tents very quickly, so use torches instead of candles," he said.
“Never take a portable or disposable barbeque inside a tent to cook or to use as a heat source because carbon monoxide is also a potential risk.
“And gas barbecues should also be used in a well-ventilated area.”
Those in caravans for a staycation are reminded to have a working smoke alarm fitted. A fire in a caravan or mobile home spreads much more quickly than it would in a house, and there are on average almost 100 caravan fires in Scotland every year.
And don’t forget if you’re leaving your home for an extended period of time this summer, remember to switch off electrical appliances before you set off.
Summer also brings with it the temptation to swim outdoors, but lochs, rivers and reservoirs also pose a risk to those enjoying nature.
Cold water shock can leave people gasping for breath and it’s potentially fatal. Therefore, the advice is to avoid unsupervised waterways.
More safer summer advice can be found online at: https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/safer-summer.aspx
