UK’s first wildfire warning of the year issued

The first official bushfire alert of the year has been issued in the UK, warning of “very high” risk in the north and north-east of Scotland.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, in collaboration with the Scottish Bushfire Forum, has urged the public to avoid lighting fires outdoors. This critical advice will remain in effect throughout Friday and Saturday.

Fire district commander Robert Lennox said: “There is no such thing as a harmless fire. Every spark, even the smallest, has the potential to become a wildfire and cause a huge amount of damage.”

“As spring approaches, we often find large areas of dead and dry vegetation in the countryside that has just finished thawing. These vulnerable areas are actually fuel for wildfires.

“Most bushfires are human-caused, which means they are also preventable. It is imperative that we all act responsibly when enjoying the outdoors, not just when the risk is high, but all year round.

“We ask the public to remain alert to conditions, monitor our bushfire danger assessments and share this guidance with your family, friends and visitors.

“Together we can protect our nature, wildlife and communities.”

The fire service issued 14 bushfire warnings last year; the last one was in October; The warning was said to be well beyond the typical timeframe for the increased risk of bushfires in Scotland.

Last year also saw what is said to be the largest bushfire ever recorded in the UK around Carrbridge and Dava Moor in the Highlands.

The Scottish Government said it “reveals with unprecedented clarity how vulnerable our landscapes, communities and infrastructure have become to a changing climate”.

It recently published its bushfire strategic action plan, which aims to set out a co-ordinated approach to preventing, preparing for and responding to bushfires in Scotland due to climate change.

The fire department also recently launched its annual wildfire prevention and awareness campaign.