FORESTRY and Land Scotland has issued a wildfire warning as temperatures rocket across Scotland.
It has said there is a “very high” risk in eastern and southern Scotland between Tuesday, July 19, and Saturday, July 23.
A tweet posted on their social media issued various pieces of guidance for those out and about over the next few days:
It read: “If you see a wildfire, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service.
🔥Wildfire Warning 🔥 There is a Very High risk of wildfire in Eastern and Southern Scotland for the period Tuesday 19 to Saturday 23 July. Find out more wildfire guidance and information online: https://t.co/E0Rn6Bx18D pic.twitter.com/BQAmVVThtA
— Forestry and Land Scotland (@ForestryLS) July 18, 2022
“Follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and never start a fire during prolonged dry periods.
“Always fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them responsibly.”
The vast majority of wildfires in Scotland are usually accidental and caused by a stray campfire ember or a dropped cigarette.
The social and economic impacts can be considerable as wildfires can be highly damaging to wildlife and their habitats.
It can take a large number of firefighters to eventually get everything under control.
Wildfires can also burn valuable carbon stores like trees and peatland which release greenhouse gases back into the atmosphere.
The damage to peatland is of particular concern as it takes a long time to recover.
Whilst Scotland won’t see anything like what can occur in Australia, prolonged dry conditions can allow wildfires to establish.
