AS the seasons shift, firefighters in the area are raising the alarm about a wildfire surge.
Nearly 80 per cent of outdoor fires occurred between March and May in the past decade. Despite a drop in incidents last year due to prolonged wet weather, the risk remains high.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) typically responds to around 170 large wildfires annually. However, most are accidental, often sparked by discarded cigarettes or unattended campfires.
“It is crucial that people understand the impact of careless fire-setting. Even with the best intentions, small fires can rapidly spread causing devastating damage,” said Michael Humphreys, area commander and SFRS wildfire lead.
SFRS works with the Scottish Wildfire Forum to issue real-time warnings, with climate change making fire prevention more critical than ever.
While wildfires can threaten the environment, they can also threaten tourism and the local economy, according to Michael Bruce, deputy chair of the Scottish Wildfire Forum.
SFRS has invested £1.6 million in specialist equipment and firefighter training as preventative measures. With the weather warming up, the spring conditions make it favourable for a wildfire.
The public is urged to check safety guidance and follow updates via SFRS social media channels.
