Wildfires
Wildfires are large, uncontrolled fires that spread quickly across land with vegetation, including:
- moorland
- heather
- gorse
- grass
- forestry
- natural woodland
They can be a serious risk to life and may cause severe environmental and economic damage.
Wildfires are more common in rural locations but can spread to urban areas.
If you see a wildfire
Move to a safe place away from the fire, smoke and vegetation. If you're in a car, close all windows and vents.
Once you're safe, call 999 and ask for the fire service. Do not fight the fire yourself.
Give as much information as you can to the fire service, including:
- the location of the fire
- a map grid reference if you know it
- the nearest main road and access point
- any landmarks
- the size of the fire and direction of spread
Stay far away from the fire as it may smoulder or spread underground.
Protecting your home from wildfires
If you live in a rural area, think about creating:
- a fire escape plan
- a wildfire safety zone around your home
A wildfire safety zone is a cleared strip of land that acts as a barrier between your home and a potential fire. Clear a 10 metre area around all sides of your home by removing flammable material like:
- trees
- shrubs
- woodpiles
- dead leaves
- fallen branches
Get more advice on protecting your home on the Fire and Rescue Service Scotland (SFRS) website.
Preventing wildfires
Before lighting any fire outdoors, check for:
- wildfire danger warnings on the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service website
- severe weather warnings from the Met Office website
Do not light a fire outdoors:
- if there’s a wildfire danger warning in place in your location
- during periods of high winds, high temperatures or low humidity
Lighting fires at home
Consider alternatives like composting if you plan to burn leaves, waste or debris.
Do not light a fire if the wind is blowing towards your or a neighbour’s house.
Before lighting a fire, keep a shovel and, if possible, a garden hose nearby. Do not put ashes in the bin until they’re cold to the touch.
Keep flammable materials in an approved safety container. Store them in a fire resistant building made from metal or brick or a garage.
Campfires
Check if there are any restrictions on lighting fires in the area before lighting a campfire.
Do not light a campfire during long dry periods in areas such as:
- forests
- woods
- farmland
- peaty ground
Keep campfires small, controlled and supervised. If you're cooking food, use a camping stove instead of an open fire.
Put out any cigarettes completely and dispose of them safely.
Before you leave an area:
- put the fire out completely
- remove all traces of the fire and take litter away with you
There are specific rules you’ll need to follow if you’re in one of Scotland’s national parks. Check the rules on:
Barbeques
Do not put a barbecue on a flammable surface during hot, dry weather. Use a designated barbecue area instead.