'Very high' risk of wildfire in parts of Scotland as public urged not to light outdoor fires

A warning has been issued for parts of Scotland amid a “very high” risk of wildfires.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said parts of the South and West of Scotland are at very high risk of wildfires with a warning in place for Wednesday, April 24, and Thursday, April 25.

Members of the public are being urged not to light fires outdoors due to risk of spreading with potential “devastating consequences” if the flame is not fully extinguished.

Firefighters tackled an average of one wildfire every day across Scotland during spring and early summer last year.

wildfire warning for parts of Scotland Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

133 incidents were reported between March and June 2023 dubbed the busiest time of the year for fires to occur across the country.

The fire service, issuing the warning with the Scottish Willdfire Forum, said it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments, and always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

Group commander Niall McLennan, one of SFRS’s Wildfire Tactical Advisors said: “People living in the South and West of Scotland should be extra cautious over the next few days and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame outdoors.

“The key issues over the next few days are sunshine, warm air temperatures, low humidity and moderate to strong winds.

“During this period of high risk, fires could ignite easily, spread fast and burn with high intensity.”