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STV News
11-07-2025
- Climate
- STV News
Scots issued safety warnings during busy summer heatwave weekend
Emergency services have issued warnings to Scots as the country prepares for a heatwave weekend packed with events. Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and NHS Scotland are among the authorities warning about various dangers during the extreme heat. With many expected to flock to Scottish beauty spots such as Loch Lomond, officers have relaunched Operation Ballaton. @stvnews Emergency services have issued warnings to Scots as the country prepares for a heatwave weekend packed with events. Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and NHS Scotland are among the authorities warning about various dangers during the extreme heat. With many expected to flock to Scottish beauty spots such as Loch Lomond, officers have relaunched Operation Ballaton. news shorts weather wildfire Warning heatwave ♬ original sound – STV News – STV News The multi-agency operation aims to tackle anti-social behaviour and maintain a visible presence in key areas throughout the summer months. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of cool fluids and water – don't wait to get thirsty Wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 Protect babies and children by keeping them cool and out of direct sunlight Cover up by wearing loose clothing and hats Stay out of the sun between 11am to 3pm – when the sun's rays are strongest Meanwhile, Scotland's biggest music festival TRNSMT kicks off on Friday, with temperatures to reach as high as 30C across the weekend. Organisers are warning concertgoers to be mindful of the warm weather and to stay hydrated and use protection against the sun. Fire crews are also warning that barbeques, which require naked flames, should only be used with great care. It comes after wildfires spread across northern parts of Scotland during recent warm weather. Inspector Colin Cameron, of Police Scotland, said: 'Officers will be on high-visibility patrol throughout the summer, supported by our partners, and anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour, violence or criminal activity will be dealt with firmly and proportionately. 'We are clear that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will use every tool available to prevent it and take action when necessary. 'We understand that recent incidents involving serious violence among young people in other parts of Scotland have caused concern. Through Operation Ballaton, we will continue to focus our resources where they are most needed, working closely with partners to address any issues that arise and to ensure the public can feel confident and safe in this area. 'Young people are often among those who travel to the area in groups, particularly in warmer weather. While many behave responsibly, we know this is not always the case. 'We are asking parents and carers to take the time to speak to their children and young people about the risks of getting involved in disorder — and the very real consequences it can have for victims, communities and their own futures.' 🔥 An extreme wildfire warning is in place across Scotland from Friday, 11 July, until Monday, 14 dry conditions and sunny weather ahead, we're urging everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely and responsibly. Wildfire prevention info: — Scottish Fire and Rescue Service – Your Safety (@SFRSYourSafety) July 11, 2025 Inspector Victoria Graham, British Transport Police, added: 'Everyone has the right to visit to these beautiful parts of the country without fear of disruptive or criminal behaviour. We're proud to commit to this operation with our trusted partners once again, and our officers will be working to keep the public safe and deter any disorderly behaviour. 'We ask people to be respectful of staff and passengers travelling to enjoy the area during the good weather, and to be responsible with their alcohol consumption. Parents are also asked to keep track of where their kids are going and what they're up to. 'We want all visitors to enjoy themselves, but where there are instances of criminality, we encourage staff and passengers to report crimes or concerns to us, so we can take action. We have officers across the rail network, at stations and on trains, and crimes can be discreetly reported to us via text 61016, and in an emergency, always call 999.' Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Group commander Raymond King said: 'We are asking the public to exercise extreme caution and think twice before using anything involving a naked flame. 'Many rural and remote communities are hugely impacted by wildfires, which can cause significant damage. STV News Top hot spots on Saturday, July 12. '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.' Ahead of TRNSMT, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde urged music fans to stay safe by protecting themselves from the sun and staying hydrated. Dr Emilia Crichton, director of public health, said: 'This weekend is looking like a great time to get outside for warmer weather. 'No matter what you're doing, please enjoy the good weather safely by protecting yourself when in the sun, staying hydrated, and having common medicines to hand. 'We know tens of thousands of people will be heading to TRNSMT, and we hope everyone has a fantastic time. 'We ask festival-goers to look after themselves and others so everyone can enjoy the event safely.' STV News Top hot spots on Sunday, July 13. The Scottish Government is also raising awareness of the dangers of spiking as part of a coordinated effort to protect the public during the busy summer events season. Victims and community safety minister Siobhian Brown said: 'We are aware of the concern in spiking cases that the link between health professionals and Police Scotland has not always been clear to victims 'We are therefore introducing changes to the NHS system which will allow us to record those who present to A&E as potential victims of spiking. This will provide invaluable data on previous unrecorded incidents and will allow us to better understand the extent to which these lead on to formal police reporting. 'We remain committed to raising awareness of and addressing issues around spiking, and urge everyone to remain vigilant and stay safe as they enjoy the summer and festival period.' Scotland is on track to officially meet heatwave criteria this weekend for the first time this summer. Temperatures are forecast to hit 25C or higher for at least three consecutive days. This means many parts of the country will experience their warmest conditions of the year so far. With school holidays under way and events like TRNSMT, the Tiree Music Festival, and Orkney hosting the International Island Games, it's essential to take precautions if you're spending time outdoors. Use high-factor sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be mindful of the risk of heatstroke. Temperatures will reach the mid-20s on Friday across eastern areas such as Aberdeenshire, Fife, and Edinburgh. But Saturday is when there will be significant heat. It looks like Shawlands, Rutherglen, Govan, Crookston, Pollokshields and Aviemore might be some of the hottest spots this Saturday. You can expect temperatures to climb as high as 30C in Glasgow, Stirlingshire, Angus, and parts of the Highlands. Sunday is likely to be the hottest day of this spell, with a strong chance of hitting 30C — which would be the first time this year. Aviemore, North Ayrshire, South Lanarkshire, and the north Highlands are the most likely candidates to reach this mark. A slight dip in temperatures may occur along the east coast on Sunday due to a developing North Sea breeze, bringing a risk of haar to the northeast. Nights will remain uncomfortably warm, particularly in the west, where overnight lows could stay in the high teens through much of the night, making for difficult sleeping conditions. This weekend will also bring very high pollen counts and the highest UV levels of the year, just weeks after the summer solstice. 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Daily Record
09-07-2025
- Daily Record
Loch Lomond warning to revellers as temperatures set to soar across Scotland
Police Scotland and partners relaunched Operation Ballaton - a summer initiative aimed at keeping visitors and communities safe across Balloch, Loch Lomond and surrounding areas. Officers have issued a stern warning to anyone planning to cause disruption at Loch Lomond this summer. As temperatures are set to soar this weekend, Police Scotland alongside partner agencies have relaunched Operation Ballaton - a seasonal crackdown designed to protect visitors and local communities throughout Balloch, Loch Lomond and the wider region. The collaborative initiative is focused on combating antisocial conduct while maintaining a strong police presence across key locations during summer. Authorities made it clear disruptive behaviour will face zero tolerance and swift action, reports Glasgow Live. Inspector Colin Cameron from Police Scotland said: "Balloch and the surrounding areas attract large numbers of people during the summer months, and we are committed to making sure they remain safe, welcoming places for everyone. "Officers will be on high-visibility patrol throughout the summer, supported by our partners, and anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour, violence or criminal activity will be dealt with firmly and proportionately. "We are clear that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will use every tool available to prevent it and take action when necessary. "We understand that recent incidents involving serious violence among young people in other parts of Scotland have caused concern. "While reported incidents of violent crime remain at historically low levels, we are not complacent. Through Operation Ballaton, we will continue to focus our resources where they are most needed, working closely with partners to address any issues that arise and to ensure the public can feel confident and safe in this area. "Young people are often among those who travel to the area in groups, particularly in warmer weather. While many behave responsibly, we know this is not always the case. "We are asking parents and carers to take the time to speak to their children and young people about the risks of getting involved in disorder - and the very real consequences it can have for victims, communities and their own futures." Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority, added: "We welcome and fully support Police Scotland's Operation Ballaton this year, continuing our established partnership. "The operation's effectiveness comes from a multi-agency collaboration focused on maintaining public safety through coordinated action by all partners, including our National Park Rangers and emergency services. "Our shared objective is to ensure that everyone feels welcome and can enjoy the National Park this summer while doing so safely, responsibly, and respectfully. "Through coordinated communication and shared resources among partners on the ground, we are better positioned to deliver an effective, prevention-focused approach that targets known hotspot areas both on land and water in Balloch, Loch Lomond, and the surrounding areas this summer." Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Watch Commander Chris Spence also said: "We always work with our communities to explain the risks of fire, but it's important to stress that deliberate fire-setting is a crime and can have a serious impact on local communities. "People who set fires need to be aware that getting involved in this type of behaviour can have a big impact on your future. "Once you light that match, you have no control or way of knowing what happens next. "Not only are you risking damage to property and wildlife, you're putting yourself and others in danger. It's just not worth it." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Depute Council Leader, Councillor David McBride said: "It is no wonder people choose to come to Balloch during the summer months with the stunning natural environment we have here. "We know the majority of visitors want to make the most of this beautiful area, but unfortunately there are some who are intent on engaging in anti-social behaviour. "Joined up working between partners happens all year round, but with the particular focus of Operation Ballaton, we can help to keep people safe and ensure Loch Lomond can be enjoyed by all." Public byelaws, such as the ban on drinking alcohol in public places, will be rigorously enforced. There will be patrols in key locations including Balloch Park, nearby train stations, Luss, and other areas that see a lot of visitors.
Glasgow Times
01-07-2025
- Glasgow Times
Mission to crack down on youth crime amid Scottish tragedies
Operation Ballaton, a multi-agency effort to reduce anti-social behaviour, violence and criminal activity, has relaunched in a bid to keep youngsters safe in light of recent incidents across the west of Scotland. The deaths of Kory McCrimmon, 16, Amen Teklay, 15, and Kayden Moy, 16, have prompted concern over the welfare of young people and the apparent prominence of knife crime over recent months. (From left to right) Amen Teklay, Kory McCrimmon, and Kaydern Moy. (Image: Supplied) Local Area Inspector Colin Cameron says they are using every tool at their disposal to prevent and take action when criminal activity occurs. He said: "We understand that recent incidents involving serious violence among young people in other parts of Scotland have caused concern. While reported incidents of violent crime remain at historically low levels, we are not complacent. "Through Operation Ballaton, we will continue to focus our resources where they are most needed, working closely with partners to address any issues that arise and to ensure the public can feel confident and safe in this area." Kory, 16, was killed in May last year when he was stabbed in the heart in Greenfield Park in Glasgow's East End. A 14-year-old was jailed for five years for the killing. Amen Teklay died in March after he was found seriously injured in Clarendon Street in Maryhill. Three teenagers, aged 13, 14, and 15, have been charged in connection with his death Kayden Moy, 16, died after a disturbance at Irvine Beach last month. Two 17-year-olds have been charged with his murder. Inspector Cameron continued: "Officers will be on high-visibility patrol throughout the summer, supported by our partners, and anyone engaging in anti-social behaviour, violence or criminal activity will be dealt with firmly and proportionately. "We are clear that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated, and we will use every tool available to prevent it and take action when necessary." (Image: Newsquest) The joint forces working in Loch Lomond this summer include Police Scotland, British Transport Police, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, West Dunbartonshire and Argyll & Bute Councils, ScotRail, and Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority. A weekly meeting between the forces offers opportunities to engage in joint discussions on how to spread their resources across the large area of Loch Lomond and Balloch. Each partner is to play their part in ensuring all organisations are ahead of any potentially criminal behaviour. For example, ScotRail has a communication link with Police Scotland and will give the force a heads up if they have a train at capacity headed to Balloch. This allows them time to deploy officers at the station ahead of their arrival to issue advice to those heading for the national park. Loch Lomond Ranger, Leigh Hamilton, says the joint partnership has made it easier for them to enforce bylaws, including alcohol bans and ensure safe use of the water. She said: "It's essential on a busy weekend like this that we can have a combined approach. "We can enforce the Loch Lomond byelaws, the camping management byelaws, if they are in the area. We are the eyes and ears for the police as well when we are working together. "Sometimes we don't always get compliance, and we need the police to support, so it's a two-way street. "Having the resource of Ballaton, to see where our partners are, is crucial to having a combined approach." In light of recent fire-raising, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service says their involvement is aimed at preventing the likes of the rugby pitch-sized fire in the national park in August. The barbecue was found with a burger still on top. (Image: SWT) A wildfire after a disposable barbeque caused a blaze around the size of two rugby pitches in the Trossachs. (Image: SWT) With police involvement, they aim to crack down on the irresponsible use of disposable BBQs. Chris Spence, SFRS watch commander, said: "We always work with our communities to explain the risks of fire, but it's important to stress that deliberate fire-setting is a crime and can have a serious impact on local communities. "People who set fires need to be aware that getting involved in this type of behaviour can have a big impact on their future. "Once you light that match, you have no control or way of knowing what happens next. "Not only are you risking damage to property and wildlife, you're putting yourself and others in danger. It's just not worth it."
