Loch Lomond visitors urged to avoid naked flames amid 'extreme' wildfire warning
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority issued the warning as Scotland continues to see dry and sunny weather into the weekend.
It comes after a spate of wildfires across the country have broken out, prompting an 'extreme' risk alert from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service. Fauldhouse Today Wildfire near Fauldhouse
Fire crews have been battling wildfires across Scotland this week, including one in West Lothian which burned for five days.
Firefighters were also called to an 800m blaze near Cumnock in East Ayrshire on Thursday, which reignited and burned overnight.
A fire on the Isle of Arran in April raged for three days at Glen Rosa, 'decimating' the reptile population. Police Scotland Wildfire on the Isle of Arran.
The latest alert is in place until Monday, May 19.
A spokesperson for the national park said the advice to the public is 'clear', urging visitors to completely avoid the use of naked flames while the alert is in place.
Leigh Hamilton, ranger service manager at Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, said the recent wildfires highlighted the devastating impact 'a single reckless act' can have.
'A carelessly discarded barbecue or cigarette can destroy precious ecosystems, as well as lives and livelihoods,' they said.
They added that there has been an 'unprecedented number of bin fires and significant damage to visitor facilities' across the park's sites.
'As we face drier, more fire-prone conditions, we urge everyone to act responsibly. During high-risk periods, please avoid using any naked flames, including disposable barbecues, and ensure waste is properly disposed of.
'We also encourage anyone who witnesses a rural wildfire to immediately call 999 – never assume someone else has done so.'
It comes as Scotland is experiencing its driest start to a year in over 60 years, with only 59% of the long-term average rainfall from January to April.
As a result, Scottish Water has also urged people to take shorter showers and to avoid using hoses to protect resources.
Area commander Joe McKay, SFRS local senior officer for East and West Dunbartonshire, Argyll and Bute, said responsible human behaviour can 'significantly lower' the chance of a wildfire starting.
'Many people are out enjoying this weather and are visiting our national parks. While we don't want to spoil their fun, we are urging people to absolutely avoid the use of naked flames, including barbecues, at this time,' they said.
Mr McKay added that discarded cigarettes and unsupervised campfires pose a 'significant threat', so it's vital to follow all safety advice.
They said that wildfires can cause 'significant damage' to rural and remote communities.
'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,' Mr McKay said.
'These fires can also have a hugely negative impact on the environment and the release of air-polluting gases into the atmosphere.'
Chief inspector Simon Shanks, local area commander for Police Scotland added: 'As the good weather continues, we are working with our partners to encourage everyone to stay safe and behave responsibly.
'We want everyone to enjoy the local area and be safe. Please make sure you are aware of wildfire guidance and safety around open water. Take home any litter and be respectful to others at all times.'
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