First Minister John Swinney has urged people to take extra care in Scotland’s countryside as firefighters continue battling the major wildfire at Glenmore, warning that the dangers posed by wildfires “cannot be underestimated”.

Ahead of a visit to the Cairngorms National Park, the First Minister is due to meet firefighters, volunteers and partner agencies involved in tackling the blaze, while also receiving an update on efforts to bring the fire under control.

The visit follows a series of significant wildfires in Scotland, including the ongoing incident at Glenmore and the recent fire at Arthur’s Seat, both of which have highlighted the growing risks posed by fires during periods of dry weather.

Mr Swinney will also chair a meeting with partner agencies and local community representatives to discuss the ongoing response and thank those involved in protecting homes, businesses and the natural environment.

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.”

The First Minister also praised the work of emergency services, land managers and volunteers who have been working to contain the fire.

He said:

“Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 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.”

Wildfires can spread rapidly, particularly during warm, dry and windy conditions, placing lives, wildlife and property at risk while also causing lasting damage to fragile habitats across the Highlands and the rest of Scotland.

Emergency services continue to urge anyone visiting the countryside to act responsibly, avoid lighting fires where there is a risk and dispose of litter carefully to help reduce the chances of further wildfires developing.