Firefighters in Fife raise concerns over deliberate outdoor fires as wildfire warning continues

A ‘very high’ to 'extreme' risk of wildfire has been in place across Scotland since Wednesday 2 April, with another ‘extreme’ wildfire warning covering the whole of Scotland coming into force from Friday 11 April until Saturday 12 April.

The Fife fires, recorded in various locations including Kirkcaldy, Dunfermline and Glenrothes, mainly involve derelict and unoccupied buildings, as well as grassland and refuse.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is warning of the potential risks of this kind of behaviour.

Lee Turnock is the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's Local Senior Officer for Clackmannanshire, Fife and Stirling.

He said: "These types of incidents which we are seeing across Fife are a needless drain on our resources.

"We've seen numbers increase over March and into April and it's very concerning.

"Those taking part in this reckless behaviour are not only endangering themselves and others but risking damage to property.

"With the current weather conditions, even a small grass fire could spread very quickly causing extensive damage.

“We'll continue to work with Police Scotland and other partners to identify those responsible."

Superintendent John Anderson of Fife Police said: “Wilful fires are criminal acts which endanger the public and our emergency service colleagues.

“We will fully investigate reports and anyone found to have started these fires will be charged.

“We urge the public to report any fires to emergency services immediately.”

ENDS

Notes to editor:

Anyone with information on deliberate fires can contact Police on 101 or the Police Scotland website.

Anonymous reports can be made to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

For information on the latest wildfire warning, please visit: EXTREME wildfire warning in place from Friday, 11 April | Scottish Fire and Rescue Service