Firefighters issue ‘no flames’ warning as renewed wildfire alert issued for whole of Scotland
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to avoid the use of naked flames outdoors at all costs as much of Scotland continues to face an extreme risk of wildfire.
A very high to extreme risk of wildfire was in place for areas across the country over the weekend and Monday.
An extreme warning is now in place for all areas of Scotland from today until Monday, 19 May.
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.
Area Commander Michael Humphreys is the SFRS Wildfire Lead and said: "Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting.
"That's why we're 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 Humphreys 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."
The SFRS has an array of wildfire prevention and safety advice on its website.
