Moray fire crews bring Culbin Forest gorse blaze under control
The public has been urged to avoid the site of a large woodland gorse fire as investigations into its cause continue.
The blaze, at Culbin Forest on land owned by Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS), was brought under control by firefighters in a five-vehicle response yesterday.
Both the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) and FLS asked the public to stay away from the fire-hit area.
An SFRS spokesperson said one firefighting vehicle is still on site damping down the embers more than 24 hours after the first report at 2.04pm on July 30.
Staff from landowner FLS are still working with fire crews to determine the scale of the fire and uncover the cause, along with providing “logistical support”.
“At the moment, the SFRS advise that the fire is under control and we continue to have personnel in attendance at the scheme who are offering logistical support to the fire service,” an FLS spokesperson said.
“Information is still being gathered on the scale of the fire and on how the fire may have started.
“We would reiterate SFRS advice to local people to stay away from the immediate area.
“With the summer still in full swing, we continue to advise and ask members of the public to be sensible and do not take any risks with potential fire sources.
“Do not light campfires, have BBQ’s or fire bowls and think twice before using a camping stove in areas such as forests, farmland, or on peaty ground.
“And if they really have to use a stove, make sure it is as stable as possible, is well away from any flammable material and is on a level and preferably fire resistant surface.”