Alarm at rise in wildfires, but praise for locals

AN MSP has warned the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires in the region is “deeply alarming”.

Speaking at Holyrood, Galloway and West Dumfries’ Finlay Carson said: “These fires are no longer rare events; they are becoming a growing threat to people, property, and our natural environment.”

And he described it as an ‘issue that demands urgent action from the SNP Government’.

Traditionally, the peak fire season locally runs from early March for about 12 weeks. Yet this year, the region saw ten fire alerts between 13 January and 15 September.

A Freedom of Information request by the Scottish Conservatives revealed that this year saw more wildfires than any full year except 2017 and 2018.

Mr Carson also revealed the threat is not only to human life but also to wildlife and the countryside, where the loss of tree cover has been dramatic.

In early April, a major wildfire in Galloway forced people and properties to be evacuated. Emergency services, supported by helicopters, battled a blaze that stretched several miles wide at its peak.

Mr Carson said: “However, amidst this crisis, the response from volunteers and local organisations was nothing short of extraordinary.

“The Galloway Mountain Rescue Team worked tirelessly around the clock, evacuating campers from danger zones, often in the dead of night.

“Using advanced tools such as drones for thermal imaging, they provided critical intelligence to the SFRS and even coordinated with Rescue 199 from Prestwick to airlift people to safety.

“Their efforts saved lives and prevented tragedy.

“We must also commend the Glentrool Hive community volunteers, who provided food, shelter and welfare support to exhausted responders during the height of the emergency.

“Their hospitality and resilience were a lifeline for those on the front line. Local farmers and land-based businesses also stepped up, supplying water bowers ATVs, and manpower to help contain the fire.

He added: “This collaboration between emergency services, rural businesses and volunteers demonstrates the very best of community spirit in the face of adversity. Their courage and commitment are an example to us all.”