Do you deliver outdoor education which includes learning about fire outdoors? Keep up to date with wildlife risk in Scotland through Firebreak Scotland.
East Ayrshire Council has shared this tips to prevent wildfires in rural and semi-rural areas:
- Avoid visiting vulnerable areas or those which have recently been subject to fires while the fire risk is high
- If you see a fire in the countryside, however small,
CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY. - Always follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
- Do not discard lit cigarette ends – make sure they
are completely extinguished. - Avoid lighting fires outdoors when high winds,
high temperatures and low humidity are present
or predicted. - Report anyone acting irresponsibly or carelessly
with fire in the countryside. - Talk to your children. Take time to explain the dangers of fire to them. Matches and lighters are tools, not toys.
- If you need to call on an emergency service, they will need to find you quickly. Is your address visible from the main road? Are there clear access points to your property?
- Have an escape plan. Ensure your family members know what to do and where to assemble. If you run a business in a rural area, make sure your staff members know the plan. Also, think about how you will round up and care for pets and domestic animals safely.
- Remember – a wildfire can develop quickly. Don’t take chances.
