The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is calling on everyone to show restraint and care as a new wildfire alert comes into force across the country.
From Thursday 15 May to Monday 19 May, all areas of Scotland face what has been classified as an extreme risk of wildfire.
With bone-dry conditions stretching across moorland, forest and grassland, the message is clear: leave the matches at home.
In recent days, the risk level had already risen to “very high” in several parts of the country.
That risk has now deepened, and the consequences of one careless moment could be catastrophic.
The stark appeal from firefighters is simple.
No flames.
No barbecues.
No cigarettes flicked into the undergrowth.
Wildfires can tear through land at frightening speed, fuelled by dry vegetation and wind.
They can burn for days, destroy habitats, and put homes, livelihoods and lives at risk.
The vast majority of wildfires in Scotland are started by people.
And it only takes one moment of thoughtlessness to set off a chain of destruction.
Area Commander Michael Humphreys, the national Wildfire Lead for the fire service, is urging everyone to act responsibly.
“Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a wildfire starting,” he said.
“We are asking people to avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, during this high-risk period.
“It only takes one spark to start a wildfire and things can get out of hand very, very quickly.”
Discarded cigarettes, unsupervised campfires and portable cooking equipment are just a few of the threats that can quickly ignite disaster.
Commander Humphreys also reminded people to follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, which sets out guidance on how to enjoy the countryside safely and respectfully.
Rural communities, already stretched in many ways, are among the most exposed to the dangers of wildfire.
“Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires,” he said.
“They also release harmful gases into the atmosphere and cause long-term damage to the environment.”
The fire service has already been called out to several blazes in remote areas this spring, with helicopters, ground crews and volunteers working for hours to bring flames under control.
But the best way to fight wildfires, they say, is to prevent them happening in the first place.
So if you’re heading outdoors in the coming days, leave the firelighters behind and respect the land.
A small act of carelessness can cause unimaginable damage.
But a moment of caution can save a lifetime of heartache.
The SFRS has an array of wildfire prevention and safety advice on its website
You can learn more about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code online.
