Scotland's fire chief calls for better wildfire planning 'to protect lives'

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is warning that action is needed to prepare for and prevent future wildfires.

Scotland’s chief fire officer is calling for government, public services, land managers, businesses and communities to work together to reduce future risk.

Last month, destructive wildfires tore through miles of countryside within the Cairngorms, causing ecological damage and forcing some residents to flee their homes.

While he praised the dedication of those involved in helping fight wildfires, the fire chief also emphasised that the threat of wildfires could not be addressed through emergency response alone.

Aftermath of the Cairngorms wildfire Cairngorms National Park

In an open letter, Stuart Stevens said: “The time to fight the risk is before the smoke is in the air. The decisions we take today will determine how well prepared Scotland is tomorrow.

“If we are serious about protecting lives, livelihoods, infrastructure, our natural environment and the resilience of our nation, we must act now – together, with purpose, and with a long-term commitment to prevention, as well as response.

“Given the risk to life, property, infrastructure and the natural environment, I believe Scotland should now consider a more formal and proportionate fire safety regime for wildfire prevention and preparedness.

“We need a broader national conversation about how Scotland manages this risk in the years ahead.”

Stuart Steven, Scotland's chief fire officer. — Stuart Steven, Scotland’s chief fire officer. SFRS

Hundreds of firefighters were on scene in the Cairngorms for weeks, bringing the flames under control, with the last crews leaving the scene around five weeks after it started.

Mr Stevens also paid tribute to the generous residents who supported the crews at the scene.

He added: “The kindness shown to responders, particularly in relation to their welfare, is deeply appreciated, and I am eternally grateful for the support they were given.

“Many of those involved came from our on-call stations. These colleagues often balance their SFRS role with other employment, family responsibilities and community commitments.

“Their contribution to Scotland is vital, the role they play in their local communities is invaluable, and I am indebted to them.”

Cairngorms wildfire Cairngorms National Park

While the SFRS is already strengthening its wildfire-fighting capabilities, the force has said that an effective response to wildfires requires a multi-agency response.

He added: “If Scotland is serious about reducing the risk and impact of wildfire, prevention must sit at the heart of our national approach.

“That means reducing the likelihood of fires starting. It means limiting the conditions that allow fires to spread quickly.

“It means improving access, water supplies, early identification, public awareness, land management plans, local preparedness and the ability of communities and partners to act before conditions become critical.”

Mr Stevens added that the emergency response to the recent wildfire should “give Scotland confidence” in tackling future wildfire incidents.