Ayr MSP says we need to build resilience against wildfire and keep Ayrshire’s beaches safe

Ayr SNP MSP Siobhian Brown is highlighting the importance of fire prevention along Ayrshire’s coastlines as she joins national efforts to strengthen Scotland’s resilience against wildfires.

Ms Brown, in her ministerial capacity co-chaired a national wildfire summit in the Cairngorms National Park recently alongside Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie, bringing together representatives from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), NatureScot, Scottish Land and Estates, environmental organisations, and land managers.

The summit followed one of the most challenging wildfire seasons in Scotland’s history, with 13 wildfire alerts this year and devastating blazes at sites such as Dava in the Highlands. Discussions centred on lessons learned, prevention measures, and how to ensure frontline teams are equipped to tackle future incidents.

Commenting Siobhian Brown MSP said:

“Scotland has faced an unprecedented scale of wildfire risk this year, and the efforts of our fire crews, local communities and partner organisations have been remarkable. This summit is about learning from those experiences and ensuring we’re even better prepared in future.

“It’s important to stress that the same principles of prevention apply locally especially during dry summer months when disposable barbecues and beach fires can quickly get out of control. Here in Ayrshire, we may not face wildfires on the scale of the Highlands, but we know how easily a small beach fire can spread.

“Fires left smouldering in sand dunes or grass can damage our coastline, harm wildlife and put people at risk. I’m encouraging everyone to enjoy our beaches responsibly, never light fires, always dispose of barbecues safely, and follow local advice from the Fire and Rescue Service.

“From the Highlands to our local beaches, the message is the same. Fire prevention starts with each of us. By being aware and acting responsibly, we can protect our communities, our landscapes, and the people who keep us safe.”

She praised the ongoing work of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Ayrshire and across Scotland, whose prevention teams regularly engage with residents, community groups, and visitors on fire safety.