'We have had four out-of-control fires in three days' - East Lothian rangers warn of fire risk in dry weather

The risk of fire spreading is higher after the country’s spell of warm weather.

A conservation group said it urges people not to have barbecues or light irresponsible fires in the countryside due to the high risk of fire spreading after the country’s spell of warm weather.

The message comes as East Lothian Council Countryside Rangers has had to deal with four out-of-control fires in just three days.

In a statement online the group reminded people that barbecues and irresponsible fires are not permitted in woodlands or near grassland, and it urged the public to be conscious of wildlife.

Group warn of fires spreading after spell of warm weather

Following the bout of warm and dry weather, the risk of fires spreading is high, according to the group.

In a statement online it said: “High risk of fire – there hasn’t been a significant amount of rain for months now meaning that there is a high risk of fire in the countryside.

“We have had four out-of-control fires in the last three days on different sites caused by disposable barbecues and irresponsible fires.

“Not only do they pose a risk to people and wildlife, they put additional pressure on the emergency services.

“Fires and barbecues are NOT PERMITTED in woodlands or in or near grassland.”