What you need to know about wildfires and how to prevent them
As we've seen in the last weeks, wildfires are a huge threat to people, wildlife and our natural environment. They have many causes and we're asking you to do what YOU can to help prevent them by learning more and taking care.
At the moment, the dry weather means the wildfire risk is extremely high, and although crews from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have succeeded in extinguishing the Galloway Forest Park fires, there is still a very high chance of more fires in the coming days while this warm spell continues.
Wildfire facts from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service
Wildfires are destructive, but did you know most of them are started by human activity? They can be on purpose or by accident. The most common offenders are:
Campfires and BBQs
Don’t have campfires or any outdoor fire when a wildfire danger assessment is in place or during prolonged dry periods. Anything which involves a naked flame is a potential risk. Even a small spark can ignite dry leaves and brush, leading to a major wildfire.
Don’t have BBQs, on any flammable surface during very dry and prolonged weather. Instead have them within safe designated BBQ areas.
Glass bottles
Sunlight shining through a glass bottle can act like a magnifying glass, focusing heat and igniting dry materials nearby.
Burning waste or refuse in gardens
Remember that any kind of fire can quickly spiral out of control, take proper precautions.
Deliberate fire setting
This is sadly a reality, with some people starting fires intentionally. If you see suspicious activity, report it immediately to Police Scotland or Crimestoppers.
Careless cigarette disposal
Even a seemingly extinguished cigarette can reignite and spark a fire in dry conditions.
Hot and dry weather
Prolonged periods of hot, dry weather create a tinderbox environment, where even a small spark can easily ignite a wildfire.
Cold, dry, and sunny weather
Believe it or not, cold, dry days with strong sunshine can also be risky. The combination of low humidity and strong winds can quickly dry out vegetation and fuel wildfires.
Follow our key tips to prevent wildfires in rural and semi-rural areas.
- Avoid visiting vulnerable areas or those which have recently been subject to fires while the fire risk is high
- If you see a fire in the countryside, however small CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY.
- Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
- Talk to your children. Take time to explain the dangers of fire to them. Matches and lighters are tools, not toys.
- Never light a fire on the ground. Use a stove or fire basket, and don't burn anything when fire risk is high
- Do not discard lit cigarette ends - make sure they are completely extinguished
- Avoid lighting fires outdoors when high winds, high temperatures and low humidity are present or predicted
- Report anyone acting irresponsibly or carelessly with fire in the countryside
- If you need to call on an emergency service, they will need to find you quickly. Is your address visible from the main road? Are there clear access points to your property?
- Have an escape plan. Ensure your family members know what to do and where to assemble. If you run a business in a rural area, make sure your staff members know the plan. Also, think about how you will round up and care for pets and domestic animals safely.
- Remember - a wildfire can develop quickly - always take it seriously
- Join Scotland’s Fight Against Fire. Prevent fires in
the countryside.
If you live in a vulnerable area
One of the most important things you can do to protect your home and property is to create a safety zone around it, extending out for at least 10 metres in all directions. A safety zone, is a well-planned, well-maintained area that is as free as possible of combustible materials that could support the spread of a wildfire. It doesn’t mean you need to strip the land of any vegetation and cover it in concrete. This leaflet has a few simple, common-sense suggestions to keep you and your property safe. Properly preparing your home and community does not guarantee that you will not incur fire damage, but it does reduce the risks
- A wildfire may seem like a remote possibility but it pays to be prepared.
- Do you and your family have a plan for your safety in the event of a wildfire?
- Do all family members know what to do and where to assemble in the event of a wildfire, including rounding
up and caring for pets and domestic animals? - Have you discussed an escape plan with your neighbours?
- Have you talked to your children about not starting fires or playing with matches?
- Wildfires are very dangerous, spreading fast, changing direction, threatening wildlife, livestock, domestic
animals, environment, property and people.
When there is a high risk of fire
- Do not burn leaves, garden vegetation and debris, consider alternatives like composting or uplift.
- Before lighting any outdoor fire, check for any restrictions or required permissions.
- Avoid lighting fires when high winds, high temperatures and low humidity are present or predicted.
- Always have a shovel available and connect your garden hose BEFORE you start the fire.
- Make sure recreational fires are made in a fire-safe pit or container and completely extinguished before
leaving. - Never burn if the smoke and flames are blowing towards your home (or your neighbour’s home).
- Do not dispose of ashes from camp fires or barbeques until they are cold to the touch.
- Store flammable materials in approved safety cans. Keep those safety cans in a fire-resistant metal or brick building or your garage.
- Do not discard lit cigarette ends - make sure they are completely extinguished.
- Challenge and/or report anyone acting irresponsibly or carelessly with fire in the countryside
Visit these Scottish Fire and Rescue Service webpages for more information