The significant dangers of wildfires cannot be underestimated and
people must be vigilant, First Minister has said ahead of a visit to
thank those who have tackled the Glenmore fire in Cairngorms
National Park.
During the visit, the First Minister will see the effects of the
ongoing wildfire, meet frontline firefighters and volunteers,
receive an update on efforts to extinguish the fire and chair a
meeting with partner agencies and local community
representatives.
He said:
"The incidents at Glenmore and Arthur's Seat show the devastating
impact wildfires can have on landscapes, properties and people's
lives. Their dangers cannot be underestimated.
I am urging everyone to keep vigilant when they are outdoors and
check if the area they are visiting is at risk of wildfires
before igniting any flames. Even in areas where there is no alert
people should be very aware of the need to light and extinguish
fires and flames responsibly and discard all waste properly
including glass bottles which can easily start grass fires.
"Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) crews, Police Scotland,
land managers, volunteers and all partner agencies have been
absolutely outstanding tackling this substantial fire and I want
to thank them for keeping people, properties and our natural
environment safe. We will continue to work with the SFRS and
partner agencies to ensure they are appropriately resourced,
including specialist wildfire units, tactical commanders and
helicopter support where needed.
"People in affected areas should follow the advice of emergency
services, avoid active fire locations and exclusion zones and
stay updated with guidance from the SFRS and local authorities."
Background
Updates on the current risk of
wildfires in Scotland and guidance on preventing them
are available from the SFRS's website.
