There is a very high risk of wildfire in the eastern Highlands, eastern and southern Scotland from today (12 August) until Thursday, 13 August.

Please pay attention to local guidance and follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code. Guidance - Open fires and BBQs in the outdoors | Scottish Outdoor Access Code

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Rising number of campfire scars found at forest sites during high fire risk period

Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) staff are urging visitors to enjoy the outdoors responsibly after an increase in evidence of campfires, littering and irresponsible behaviour at sites across Skye and Lochalsh.

The warning comes as work continues to deal with the impact of the major wildfire at Glenmore and recent alerts to very high wildfire risks from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service across parts of Scotland.

At Broadford Forest car park, where signage clearly states that fires are not permitted, staff recently discovered and cleared several separate fire pits. This is despite FLS providing four picnic benches in the car park, two of which have BBQ plates.

FLS Visitor Services Seasonal Ranger Erika O’Reilly said:

“At a time of heightened fire risks across the country, it is really disappointing to find a small number of people visiting our sites failing to observe signage and displaying a lack of awareness for the potential danger their actions could cause. We are seeing first-hand the devastating impact fires can have on Scotland’s and the UK’s natural environment.

“On top of the fire risk, it appears people are using wood or other fuel source that contains rusty nails, screws and metal staples, posing a potential hazard to other visitors, pets and wildlife.

“The Broadford site is popular with families, dog walkers and participants in the weekly Skinadin parkrun, making the discovery particularly concerning.”

Time and resources spent restoring fire damaged areas and clearing the mess left behind unfortunately means efforts need to be diverted from planned work.

FLS is reminding visitors to:

  • obey local signage and restrictions
  • avoid lighting fires and solid fuel BBQs
  • take all litter and waste home
  • leave no trace of their visit
  • report wildfires immediately by calling 999 and asking for the Fire and Rescue Service

Erika added:

"Even a small fire can have serious consequences. We want everyone to enjoy Scotland's outdoors safely while helping to protect the landscapes and wildlife that make these places special."

Notes to editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
  2. Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot