Help protect woods from forest fires

The recent spell of hot and dry weather has caused fires to break out in woods and heathland across Britain with the Highlands of Scotland being affected particularly badly.

When visiting a wood, or other countryside places, please take precautions to help reduce the fire risk and help protect our woods and green spaces.

Tips to help reduce fires:

Ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished and don't throw cigarette ends on the ground

Don't light fires in the countryside. If using a barbecue, do so in a suitable, safe area and don't leave it unattended

Take any rubbish home with you, particularly glass bottles and jars as sunlight shining through them can start a fire

Report any fires, even small ones, to the Fire Service immediately

Do not attempt to tackle fires which can't be put out with a bucket of water. Leave the area immediately and alert the Fire Service

For more advice on protecting our woods and countryside, see The Countryside Code and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code