Wildfires in Aberdeenshire and Moray: Warning issued as sunshine and high winds forecast
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A warning has gone out to the public to be extra-careful in regards to wildfires.
Over the next few days a 'high to extreme' fire risk is in place for much of Scotland’s east coast.
Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is therefore urging people to do everything they can to avoid putting the emergency services under unnecessary pressure.
The likelihood of wildfires has increased due to the recent dry weather allied to a forecast of sunshine, low humidity and high winds.
Simon Hodgson, the chief executive of Forestry and Land Scotland, said: "We continue to welcome locals to our forests.
"But everyone should be aware of the heightened risk and not carry out any activity that might chance starting a wildfire."
Bruce Farquharson from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service states that many wildfires are avoidable.
Often, he adds, they are the result of irresponsible behaviour, such as discarding cigarettes or lighting campfires or barbecues in the wrong places.
Their impact can have long-term consequences for wildlife.
Area Commander Farquharson said: "Livestock, farmland, wildlife, protected woodland and sites of special scientific interest can all be devastated by these fires, as can the lives of people living and working in rural communities.
"These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere."
