Nanette Milne, Scottish Conservative MSP for the North East has called on the public to be very vigilant about the potential of countryside fires. The call comes following a large wildfire between Laggan and Dalwhinnie which has been ongoing since Sunday 14th July.
Scottish Land and Estates, which represents some 2,500 landowners across the country, has published a useful wildfire information guide and contingency plans have been put in place by rural groups in all high risk areas, in an effort to tackle the threat of wildfires.
Nanette Milne, Scottish Conservative MSP for the North East said:
“The hot weather which we have experienced in recent weeks has left many parts of the Scottish countryside with tinderbox conditions.
“Every year, wildfires destroy thousands of acres of countryside and wildlife habitats. Wildfires often spread quickly among plants that are dry and easy to burn, such as gorse and heather.
“With many people using the good weather to enjoy the countryside it is vital people take extra care. Many wildfires start due to carelessness, for example people discarding lit cigarettes or leaving campfires unattended.
“It is a great time of year to enjoy the Scottish countryside at its best and by following the advice of the Scottish Fire & Rescue Service we can reduce the risks of wildfires in the countryside, always extinguish cigarettes properly, never throw cigarette ends out of car windows, don’t leave bottles or glass in woodlands – sunlight shining through glass can start fires, only use barbecues in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended, avoid using open fires in the countryside.
“It is also important that parents talk to young people about the dangers of lighting fires.”