Campfires and barbecues

The Cairngorms National Park is famous for our forests, but in a changing climate the risk of wildfires is increasing. Even in cold weather there is a risk of wildfires that have the power to burn through woodlands, vegetation and peatlands, damaging internationally important habitats, killing wildlife and impacting people’s property and livelihoods.

It only takes a spark or smouldering piece of ash to start a wildfire. To prevent this, we ask that you:

• Do not light a campfire (even in a fire pit or fire bowl) in the National Park. Use a stove for cooking as these are a much safer alternative.
• Avoid barbecues in the open countryside and do not use disposable barbecues. If having a barbecue at home, please take extreme care.
• Always follow advice from rangers, site staff and local signs.
• Pay attention to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service fire alerts and, particularly at times of high fire risk, take extra care with stoves.
• If you see or suspect someone acting suspiciously or irresponsibly - including lighting a campfire - contact Police Scotland on 101 or Scotland Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. If you see a wildfire, call 999.