Highland wildfire ‘very high’ risk warning issued
People across large parts of the north of Scotland are being warned to be aware of the danger of wildfire over the coming days.
A “very high” risk of wildfire is in place from today until Wednesday in a warning from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) that also applies to parts of the east of the country.
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It is the first wildfire warning of the year, issued just as meteorological spring gets under way.
SFRS, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum, is urging the public to avoid lighting fires outdoors in the impacted areas during this period.
Area commander Michael Humphreys is SFRS wildfire lead.
He said: “During any period of heightened risk, fires can ignite easily, spread very quickly, and burn with high intensity.
“At this time of year in early spring, even when the weather is still bitterly cold in some areas, we typically have a large volume of dead, bone-dry vegetation across large areas of countryside. This essentially acts as a fuel for fire.
“There are currently vast areas that are tinder dry and vulnerable, which provides all the ingredients for fire to take hold and spread.
“Human behaviour is the cause of most wildfires in Scotland, so it is imperative we all act responsibly while enjoying the outdoors over the coming days and weeks ahead.
“By following some simple but key advice, we can significantly reduce the risk of wildfire occurring."
SFRS advises people to always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and has a range of safety advice for wildfire prevention on its website
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