RESIDENTS and holidaymakers across the region are being asked to be vigilant regarding outdoor fires.
Recent statistics have revealed that avoidable outdoor fires have more than doubled since last year.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews responded to more than 1,400 fires involving grass, woodland and crops.
Regardless of the cause, be it negligence or complacency, they can cause huge damage to vast areas of landscape and wildlife and have the potential to burn for days.
Statistics also revealed that deliberate fire-setting is on the rise, with firefighters responding to more than 3,000 across Scotland, the equivalent of 48 fires per day.
Alasdair Perry is the Deputy Assistant Chief of the SFRS, and has spoken out regarding the launch of the annual #SaferSummer campaign.
“We need people to be aware of how quickly things can get out of hand.
“We understand that people will, of course, want to take to the countryside and holiday in Scotland this year. But please be careful and bear in mind that human behaviour can drive the risk of fire down significantly.
“First and foremost, 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.”
