FORESTRY and fire chiefs have warned people in Helensburgh and beyond of the heightened risk of wildfires during the current spell of dry weather.

Fire crews have attended more than 10 wildfires in Scotland in the last few weeks, including one in the Kilpatrick Hills.

These incidents have led to Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) urging all members of the public to observe wildfire prevention guidance to avoid putting the emergency services under unnecessary pressure.

Bruce Farquharson from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, who chairs the Scottish Wildfire Forum, said: “Fires in areas of countryside and woodland have the potential to spread quickly, and traditionally this is a period when we see a high volume of large wildfires in Scotland.

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“This is clearly an unprecedented time for the country, and a challenging period for the emergency services.

“Wildfires can draw huge resources, and while we continue to maintain a high resilience across Scotland, we would seek to avoid any unnecessary demand on our service.

“While social distancing rules should continue to see a reduction in the number of people in the countryside, the threat of wildfire undoubtedly remains.

“Human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of grass and woodland fires starting, so it is crucial that people act safely and responsibly in rural environments, and always follow the countryside code.”

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Simon Hodgson, chief executive of Forestry and Land Scotland, said: “These avoidable incidents, which are often the result of irresponsible, thoughtless behaviour, are drawing emergency services into situations often for considerable periods of time.

“We would strongly urge everyone to follow current government and NHS advice, stay local and only visit a forest that they can get to on foot, by cycling or by wheelchair.

“Please be extra vigilant and do not carry out any activity that might risk starting a wildfire.

"Helping to prevent wildfires also prevents undue demands being made on our blue light services – and could also save lives.”

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