Dry spell sparks wildfire warning in the Cairngorms National Park
A warning has been issued that the extended dry and very warm weather means there is a real danger of wildfires in the Cairngorms National Park.
The alert has said that people and wildlife could be put at great risk if people do not take care whilst out in the countryside.
The Met Office has advised that the Fire Severity Index is showing an elevated threat in the days ahead.
With the school holidays and Easter approaching, members of the public and visitors are being urged to be especially careful during this dry snap.
They are asked to follow advice to:
never light a fire during a prolonged dry period;
use a stove rather than an open fire if cooking outdoors; and
if using a disposable barbecue, place it on a solid fire resistant surface such as stones and take it home once it has cooled
In the last week a serious wildfire was put out by the South Grampian Wildfire Group, a partnership between Grampian Fire and Rescue Services and many of the estates in the South Grampian area.
The partnership brings together the capabilities of the fire service with the specialist skills and equipment of the estates.
Chairman Michael Bruce said: "The risk of wildfire is very high just now, the grasses and heather are very dry.
"Although this fire was small it had big flames and was extremely dangerous. It was a warning. So I would urge all visitors to the countryside to be both careful and vigilant."
