Moray residents urged to remain vigilant of wildfire risk

The safety message – from Moray Council’s Chair of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee, Cllr Peter Bloomfield – follows several significant wildfires elsewhere in Scotland in recent weeks, including an ongoing incident in the Cairngorms.  

Emergency services have been working tirelessly to contain and extinguish the blaze, which led to evacuations from nearby properties.  

Councillor Peter Bloomfield, Moray Council’s Chair of the Police and Fire and Rescue Services Committee, 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 spots a wildfire or large outdoor fire should call 999 immediately, providing as much information as possible about the location and extent of the incident.