‘EXTREME’ wildfire warnings are still in place across the region, as firefighters work to make Galloway Forest Park safe.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) confirmed this morning that the latest warning which included the south-west will last until Thursday.
Firefighters responded to approximately 90 outdoor fires across Scotland over the weekend, ranging in size and severity.
The blaze in Galloway Forest Park started on Friday around 11.50 pm near Merrick Hill before spreading to the Ben Yellary, Glen Trool and Loch Dee areas. At its height there were two fire engines at the scene, assisted by two helicopters. SFRS has one crew in the forest park today working to make the area safe.
As the warm weather looks set to continue, the public is being urged to exercise caution if out and about in rural areas during the Easter holidays and avoid lighting outdoor fires.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour is Head of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness at SFRS. He said: “Wildfires have the potential to burn for days, as we’ve seen this week in Dumfries and Galloway, and they spread through vast areas of land in our countryside, which is devastating for those who live nearby.
“Our firefighters will continue to work with local landowners and other partners to bring these fires under control.
“As the warm and dry weather continues, so too does the risk of wildfire, and so we are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame.
“Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting, so it is crucial that people act safely in rural environments and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.”
