Safety advice
Anyone enjoying the great outdoors has been urged not to light campfires unless they have permission from the landowner.
Perth and Kinross Council and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) joined forces recently to remind people of the dangers posed when building a fire or through the inappropriate use of items such as disposable barbecues.
According to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, stoves should always be used rather than open fires.
In addition, access rights only apply to people who“leave no trace” – meaning anyone who causes damage by lighting a fire could be held liable.
The council also stressed the importance of not lighting fires during prolonged periods of dry weather, or in areas such as forests, farmland or on peaty ground.
The outdoor access code also states people must ensure recreational fires are made in a fire-safe pit or container and are well back from tents.
Campbell Sands is a watch commander with the fire service.
He said:“Our main concern will always be the safety of the people of Scotland and with this in mind, as travel restrictions lift, we’re asking those venturing out to be mindful of their surroundings and to remember their responsibilities.
“Fire can destroy a tent in less than 60 seconds, and I would urge people to follow the SFRS Tent Safety tips.” The guidance is as follows:
• Cook a safe distance from the tent;
• Never use candles in or near a tent;
• Never cook inside a small tent or take a portable barbecue – or lit charcoal– into an enclosed space;
• Never cook near long grass or flammable materials;
• Never smoke inside a tent;
• Make sure you know how to cut your way out of the tent, to escape if there is a fire;
• Make sure everyone knows how to put out clothing that’s on fire – stop, drop, and roll.
Campbell continued:“Ensure tents are at least six metres apart and well away from parked cars. This will help reduce the risk of fire spreading.
“Never use petrol or paraffin to light a barbecue or campfire and use only recognised lighters or starter fuels on cold coals.
“Also keep a mobile phone charged and close at hand, for use in emergencies.”
Clare Mailer is PKC’s depute director of communities.
She advised: “The most important step is to extinguish the fire.
“Campers need to properly maintain and extinguish campfires when going to bed or leaving the area.
“If possible, let the campfire burn down to ashes. Pour water on the fire to drown all embers, not just the red ones, ensuring there is no heat remaining.
“Once this is done, stir everything in the pit with a shovel.
“There should be no evidence of a fire when you leave, other than in an authorised fire pit.”
• See www.firescotland.gov.uk for more information.