Residents and visitors across Moray are being urged to take extra care outdoors as a very high wildfire risk remains in place, with recent fires serving as a stark reminder of how quickly devastating blazes can take hold.
The appeal comes as firefighters continue tackling the major wildfire at Glenmore in the Cairngorms, where emergency crews and volunteers have spent days working to contain the blaze after nearby properties were evacuated.
Moray Council says the current spell of hot, dry weather has created conditions in which even a small spark can rapidly develop into a fast moving wildfire, threatening homes, wildlife and the natural environment.
The warning will resonate with many people across Moray, where communities have already witnessed the destruction caused by major wildfires in recent years, including the blaze at Culbin Forest and the record breaking fire on Dava Moor, the largest wildfire ever recorded in Scotland.
Chair of Moray Council’s Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee, Councillor Peter Bloomfield, said:
“In Moray, we’re very familiar with the devastating effect wildfires have.
“People will be very familiar with the blaze at Culbin Forest last year, not to mention the fire on Dava Moor, which was the largest ever recorded in Scotland.
“While outside Moray, the ongoing blaze in the Cairngorms serves yet another reminder as to how quickly these fires can start and spread, posing a huge threat to people, properties and the environment.
“It’s important to pay tribute to everyone who is currently tackling that fire, including volunteers.
“They are working in challenging and often dangerous conditions, their bravery and dedication is inspirational.
“The recent hot and dry weather creates the kind of conditions wildfires need to start quickly and spread rapidly.
“I would urge everyone enjoying the outdoors to act responsibly, avoid lighting fires or barbecues in vulnerable areas, dispose of litter safely and follow any advice issued by emergency services and land managers.
“Preventing wildfires is a shared responsibility.
“By taking simple precautions we can all play a part in reducing the risk.”
Anyone who discovers a wildfire or large outdoor fire is urged to dial 999 immediately and provide emergency services with as much information as possible about the location and scale of the incident.
With warm and dry conditions expected to continue, emergency services are reminding everyone that simple actions, from avoiding disposable barbecues in vulnerable areas to disposing of litter responsibly, can make a significant difference in helping to protect Moray’s countryside.
