New Scotland wildfire strategy launched after record 2025 fire season

by Featured NewsWildland Fire

Scotland action plan sets out wildfire response changes

A new strategic action plan has been launched to strengthen wildfire prevention, preparedness and response across Scotland following the country’s most severe wildfire season in recent memory.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the plan is designed to improve coordination between agencies, expand operational capability and increase public awareness of wildfire risk.

Scotland’s high-risk wildfire period, traditionally between March and May, has expanded in recent years.

Firefighters spent more than 100 days responding to more than 230 wildfires during 2025.

The executive summary of the Wildfires: strategic action plan records 241 wildfires during the year, including the Carrbridge and Dava Moor fire which burned nearly 10,000 hectares and is described as the UK’s largest recorded wildfire.

The plan was developed in partnership with SFRS with input from His Majesty’s Fire Service Inspectorate alongside other stakeholders.

It sets out coordinated actions under three areas covering prevention, preparedness and response.

Measures include strengthening public awareness of wildfire risks, investing in wildfire vehicles and equipment and developing a multi-agency Concept of Operations ahead of the 2026 wildfire season.

Local and regional Incident Response Plans will also be enhanced to strengthen protection for responders, rural communities and Scotland’s natural environment during periods of heightened wildfire activity.

Additional actions include reviewing and expanding the Community Asset Register and examining a mountain rescue-style approach to trained wildfire volunteers with a potential trial in Cairngorms National Park.

Scotland equipment investment and operational preparation

SFRS said it reviewed the 2025 wildfire season and has invested in equipment, training and specialist capability.

Four new wildfire support units with enhanced equipment have been placed in Alford, Oban, Galashiels and Dornoch.

Two interim wildfire units have also been introduced in Lockerbie and Thurso.

Controlled burn training is being delivered to support operational readiness.

The service worked with partners to review wildfire incidents from 2025 through the Scottish Multi-Agency Resilience Training and Exercising Unit (SMARTEU).

Recommendations from the SMARTEU debrief will be progressed through the Scottish Wildfire Forum.

More than 30 fire stations across Scotland are already equipped with dedicated wildfire resources.

Wildfire tactical advisers are also available to provide strategic support during incidents.

To inform the public, SFRS issues Wildfire Danger Assessments through its website and social media channels when weather conditions increase wildfire risk.

SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour said: “Wildfires continue to pose an increasing threat to Scotland’s rural communities and natural environment.

“We welcome the strategic action plan, which is an essential step in ensuring our firefighters, land managers, public bodies and partners can enhance their collective response to wildfires.

“It is vital for everyone to play their part in protecting Scotland’s natural environment with responsible outdoor behaviour.

“Never assume a small fire, like a campfire or portable BBQ, is safe and harmless.

“The smallest spark or ember in dry conditions can quickly lead to wildfire destroying large parts of the countryside.”

Scotland ministers link plan to future wildfire preparedness

SFRS said Minister for Community Safety Siobhian Brown and Agriculture Minister Jim Fairlie joined the service at Pitlochry fire station to present wildfire appliances and equipment as the annual wildfire awareness campaign launched alongside the action plan.

Brown said: “Last year’s wildfires were a warning that we must be prepared for this to be a more regular occurrence as a result of climate change.

“The strategic action plan will improve coordination between the SFRS and other responders during wildfires and includes the development of Incident Response Plans to strengthen the protection of responders, rural communities, and the natural environment during periods of heightened wildfire activity.

“It will also see the Community Asset Register – a list of volunteers and equipment to help with wildfire response – reviewed and expanded.”

Fairlie said: “All of us who saw the devastation caused by last year’s fires know that it took an incredible effort to get them under control and I would like to repeat our thanks to all the SFRS staff, landowners, managers, keepers and workers who stepped in.

“So many communities stepped up to save their local landscape and the species that live there and this plan is intended to help us better prepare for the future.

“Each of us has a part to play in preventing wildfires and must be mindful of their behaviour when enjoying our wonderful countryside during the dry months to ensure we do not do anything or leave behind litter that could ignite a fire.”

The strategic action plan sets out a coordinated approach intended to strengthen Scotland’s wildfire resilience ahead of the 2026 wildfire season and in future years.

Multi-agency investigation expected after Glasgow building fire

by Featured NewsIncidents

Investigation planned after Union Street fire

A multi-agency investigation will be conducted into the cause of the fire at a commercial building on Union Street in Glasgow after the four-storey structure partially collapsed.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said the fire began on the ground floor of a commercial unit and that it cannot speculate on the cause at this stage.

More than 200 firefighters have been involved in operations since the alarm was raised at 3.46pm on Sunday 8 March.

There have been no reported casualties among members of the public or SFRS personnel.

The fire caused extensive damage to the building and led to the loss of the building’s dome.

A Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “This has been a significant incident in Glasgow city centre, which has involved hundreds of firefighters working tirelessly since yesterday afternoon.

“We have now scaled back and eight appliances, including three high-reach vehicles, remain in attendance.

“The initial response involved crews from Glasgow and Lanarkshire, however any incident on this level would need to draw on resources from across Scotland as we bring in relief crews to take over.

“We cannot speculate on the cause of the fire at this time.

“In line with fire investigation protocols, a multi-agency investigation will be conducted, however due to the significant damage that has occurred this may be hampered.”

Firefighters remain at scene

Eight fire appliances and three high reach vehicles remained at the scene on the morning of Monday 9 March.

At the height of the incident, 18 fire appliances and specialist resources were deployed, including a high-volume pump drawing water from the River Clyde.

Firefighters are continuing to cool hotspots within the stonework and are assisting structural engineers assessing the stability of the remaining structure.

Members of the public have been advised to avoid the area where possible and nearby residents have been asked to keep windows closed as a precaution.

Glasgow Central Station remains closed due to the proximity of the fire to railway infrastructure and the presence of debris around the site.

Commentary highlights vulnerability of historic buildings

Commentary reported by The Guardian has linked the fire to wider concerns about the vulnerability of historic buildings in Glasgow city centre.

Architect and critic Rory Olcayto said: “Yesterday’s fire looks like a tragic accident but it highlights a brutal reality: Glasgow historic architecture is extremely vulnerable and too often those who make this point are called out as nostalgia buffs.

“Until Glasgow treats its built fabric as part of its social fabric, these crises will keep happening.

“Too many senior decision makers in Glasgow still act as if the city has to choose between looking after people and looking after its buildings.”

The Guardian reported that many vacant commercial properties in Glasgow city centre are located in pre-1919 buildings that can be more complex and costly to convert for new uses.

Niall Murphy, director of Glasgow City Heritage Trust and a specialist conservation architect, said: “Everyone assumes that this is a council problem.

“In actual fact, it’s the owners of the building – they’re the ones who are meant to be maintaining the building.”

Murphy said the trust has been working to promote earlier maintenance of historic buildings so that risks are addressed before buildings deteriorate further.

The cause of the Union Street fire remains unknown and a multi-agency investigation will determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service staff give 3,000 hours to mentoring programme

by Featured NewsTraining

SFRS volunteering supports 140 young people through mentoring with MCR Pathways

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said its partnership with MCR Pathways has involved more than 100 workforce volunteers giving around 3,000 hours to mentor 140 young people across Scotland.

The organisation said the figures were shared as MCR Pathways visited SFRS National Headquarters in Cambuslang to mark the five-year partnership.

The visit included two young people in the programme, Ben and Oliver, alongside their mentors from the service.

SFRS said Craig Connolly, a Watch Commander at Kirkintilloch Community Fire Station, mentors Ben.

SFRS said Ryan Howie, a firefighter from Pollock Community Fire Station in Glasgow, mentors Oliver.

How the mentoring programme operates

MCR Pathways said its aim is to support young people in finding paths to brighter futures across Scotland through its mentoring programme.

The charity said volunteers can apply to become mentors and are then matched with a young person.

MCR Pathways said meetings then take place at the young person’s school.

The charity said a mentor can provide support and a listening ear as young people consider future career paths, including university, college or an apprenticeship.

It said the programme can involve one hour a week.

Young people describe their experiences

Oliver said: “The word ‘mentoring’ feels safe, like someone you can rely on.

“It can be easier to open up to someone outside your family.”

Oliver said: “We connected through sports and games, and that helped me become more confident.

“Having that hour every week to talk about anything without judgement is a massive relief and helps in feeling better about yourself.”

Ben said: “Mentoring is one of the best things for getting through the senior phase of school.

“It’s great having someone you can talk to every week.

“We connected through honesty and getting to know each other.

“Being a teenager means having lots of ideas, and school can rush you.

“Mentoring helped me figure out what I want to do.

“It’s amazing to have a trustworthy adult who always has your back.”

Firefighter mentors on the time commitment

Ryan said: “There’s so much pressure on young people to have their lives mapped out so early.

“Giving an hour a week to support someone’s confidence and opportunities felt like time well spent.

“I’ve seen Oliver’s confidence grow—from me steering the conversation to now having a balanced, natural chat.”

Craig said: “The SFRS has a course called Fire Skills and I was an instructor teaching young people teamwork, communication and problem-solving.

“Seeing them unlock potential they didn’t know they had was incredible.

“Mentoring felt like the perfect next step to help another young person grow.

“I build connections by being true to my word, showing up, remembering what matters to them, and letting trust grow naturally.”

Visit to the National Training Centre

SFRS said Ben and Oliver received a tour of the SFRS National Training Centre during the headquarters visit.

Oliver said: “Days like this show young people what it’s really like to be a firefighter: the effort, training, and everything it takes to do the job.

“Seeing how they deal with house fires or stacked cars was incredible.”

Ben said: “It was great, really fun.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but I learned a lot.

“It shows being a firefighter isn’t just about fires; it’s about helping people in so many ways and doing it without ego.

“I didn’t realise how tough the job was until today.”

Leaders set out the partnership purpose

Andrew Watt, Deputy Chief Officer, said: “We are immensely proud of our partnership with MCR Pathways.”

He said the service recognises the value of positive role models and that fire stations are at the heart of communities across Scotland.

Watt said the service’s position as a trusted partner can make a positive impact for young people pursuing brighter futures through mentoring.

He added that the experience also helps the team to grow as individuals and professionals and enhances learning.

Sharon MacIntyre, Chief Executive of MCR Pathways, said: “Mentors like Craig and Ryan, who show up every week despite demanding roles as firefighters, are crucial to helping young people find paths to brighter futures.

“A trusted adult who turns up unconditionally can transform a young person’s life.”

She added: “That power of having one trusted adult unconditionally in your corner, who consistently turns up for their young person, no matter what, can be truly transformational and life-changing.

“We are truly grateful for all that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are doing in supporting young people through MCR Pathways and in championing the power of mentoring and encouraging more staff to come forward in becoming mentors.”

What the figures mean for community engagement roles

The SFRS figures provide a reference point for fire and rescue leaders, community safety teams and training officers planning staff volunteering in schools.

The programme model described by MCR Pathways is based on a weekly one-hour commitment and school-based meetings, which may help services estimate time, supervision and scheduling needs.

The involvement of operational firefighters and a Watch Commander highlights how mentoring can be delivered alongside frontline roles, where local station links exist.

The headquarters visit and tour of the National Training Centre also shows how mentoring activity can connect with public understanding of firefighter training and capability.

For organisations considering similar partnerships, the named examples give practical insight into how matches are formed, how conversations develop over time and how young people describe changes in confidence and career thinking.

Wildfires, batteries and floods: What Scotland’s fire service annual performance review reveals

by Featured NewsResearch

Review meeting held in Ayr

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported on its performance for 2024–25 at its annual performance review in Ayr.

According to the Service, the review provides the Scottish Government with a formal opportunity to assess the Service’s performance against set priorities.

The Service Board and Strategic Leadership Team explained that ongoing changes are being considered through its Service Delivery Review and public consultation.

SFRS reported that its crews attended more than 74,000 incidents across Scotland during the period.

It added that the review also considered the increasing demands of climate change and the Service’s response.

Wildfire activity during 2024–25

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service stated that 12 wildfire risk warnings were issued between March and August 2025, covering 59 days of heightened risk.

It reported that since February 2025, the Service has responded to 231 large outdoor fires across the country.

Some of these fires continued for several days, affecting many regions.

According to the Service, the 2023–26 Wildfire Strategy includes an investment of around £1.6 million.

It confirmed this spend has provided 400 sets of specialist wildfire PPE, 10 all-terrain vehicles, 10 ATV trailers and four dedicated 4×4 support vans.

Investment in climate and flood resilience

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service noted that it has invested in flood response PPE.

It explained that the Service has also supplied around 200 life jackets to support water rescue operations.

These measures form part of the organisation’s wider climate change adaptation planning.

The Service said this preparation will support crews when responding to flooding and water-related risks.

It added that these developments are designed to strengthen Scotland’s community resilience.

Focus on prevention and protection

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported that its prevention and protection activity includes emerging risks linked to battery energy storage systems.

The Service highlighted that in 2024 it launched a UK-wide campaign on lithium-ion battery safety.

The campaign provides information and guidance on safe use, charging, storage and disposal of lithium-ion products.

The Service said public education on new fire risks forms an important part of its wider prevention strategy.

It explained that lithium-ion related risks are expected to increase as battery use expands.

Collaboration and partnership activity

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service stated that it continues to work with Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service through the Reform Collaboration Group.

It added that the aim of this group is to improve cooperation among emergency services.

The Service reported that further collaboration is ongoing with the Fire Brigades Union and academic researchers on fire contaminant risk.

It explained that this includes the Scottish Government CivTech programme which is trialling technologies to track firefighter exposure and improve health monitoring.

Partnership projects are also underway across Scotland to provide additional resilience for communities.

Leadership and training

Chief Officer Stuart Stevens said: “We want to be a modern service that is ready for the challenges of Scotland’s future.

“We continue to see the impacts of climate change and this year our firefighters have worked tirelessly on a large number of outdoor fires.

“Fires of this nature are challenging for our crews and require a tremendous effort from our firefighters, including those who work on call, as well as our Operations Control staff. We continue to thank them for their dedication, professionalism and commitment.

“The Annual Performance Review also emphasises the importance of our continued partnership work as we work to provide protection and resilience for our communities across Scotland.”

Minister for Victims and Community Safety, Siobhan Brown MSP said: “I greatly value the work of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.

“The Annual Performance Review provides an opportunity to reflect on SFRS’s performance and to appreciate all that the service has done over the year.

“We will consider performance against the Scottish Government Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland, which sets out Ministers’ ambitions and priorities for SFRS as a world-leading, modern, skilled and dynamic fire and rescue service.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This annual performance review provides information on how the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is adapting to current risks.

It shows the operational impact of wildfires, flooding and new hazards such as lithium-ion battery fires.

It highlights how service delivery is linked to both climate change and emerging technology.

It also sets out how collaboration across emergency services and with research partners is influencing future risk management.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service annual performance review outlines priorities for 2024–25: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service held its annual performance review in Ayr.

The review assessed the Service’s performance during 2024–25.

The Scottish Government used the meeting to consider progress against the Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland.

The Service reported attending more than 74,000 incidents in the period.

There were 12 wildfire risk warnings between March and August 2025.

Since February 2025, 231 large outdoor fires have been recorded.

The 2023–26 Wildfire Strategy includes an investment of £1.6 million.

The Service has purchased wildfire PPE, ATVs, trailers and 4×4 support vans.

Flood response PPE and 200 life jackets have also been provided.

The Service launched a UK-wide lithium-ion battery safety campaign in 2024.

Collaboration continues with Police Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service and the Fire Brigades Union.

The CivTech programme is developing firefighter contaminant exposure monitoring technologies.

Chief Officer Stuart Stevens and Minister Siobhan Brown MSP commented on the Service’s performance.

The review covered service delivery, prevention, protection, climate response and collaboration.

The review outlined how the Service is planning for future risks in Scotland.

Is Scotland’s fire service ready for what’s next? Inside the SFRS strategy for 2025–28

by Featured News

Service strategy outlines vision for evolving needs in Scotland

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has formally approved its new strategy for 2025 to 2028, outlining priorities across community safety, operational readiness and organisational reform.

According to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the strategy responds to shifts in incident trends, such as a decline in house fires and a rise in flooding and wildfires, alongside wider social and infrastructure challenges.

SFRS said it will deliver the strategy through a three-year delivery plan supported by local fire and rescue plans, directorate plans and individual team objectives.

The strategy sets five overarching objectives: safer communities through prevention, safe and effective response, investing in people, improving performance, and innovation and investment.

According to SFRS, these priorities are shaped by national guidance including the Fire and Rescue Framework for Scotland, and are aligned with the organisation’s long-term vision and public sector reform goals.

Community prevention work remains central to SFRS operations

The strategy confirms that preventing incidents before they occur remains a core function of the service.

SFRS said it will continue to focus on reducing fire risk in homes and businesses and supporting vulnerable individuals through targeted interventions.

The document identifies ageing populations, health inequalities and climate-related threats as emerging areas of concern for future prevention work.

According to the strategy, enhanced data use and local partnership working will be used to shape prevention activity and support community resilience.

SFRS also said it would revise its enforcement approach to reflect findings from major incident reviews, including the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

Emergency response shaped by climate and operational learning

The service said that its operational model will be adapted to meet evolving risks, including more frequent extreme weather events.

According to the strategy, firefighters will receive continued training under the 2023–28 Training Strategy to maintain competency and adapt to new techniques.

SFRS said it will explore different delivery models and ways of working to improve productivity and incident response.

Investment in new systems, vehicles and technologies is planned to support safe and timely deployment.

The strategy commits to embedding lessons learned from past incidents, both within SFRS and from other UK and international services.

Staff wellbeing and diversity are key priorities

SFRS said that supporting the health, safety and career development of staff will remain a core objective through 2028.

The strategy outlines commitments to mental wellbeing, leadership development, and inclusive recruitment.

The service aims to expand representation across its workforce to reflect Scotland’s population, including people from a range of backgrounds and experiences.

According to SFRS, a revised set of organisational values will be developed to guide behaviours and professional standards.

The service also intends to enhance its support for on-call staff through new employment practices.

Innovation and investment to drive efficiency and capacity

The strategy sets out a commitment to modernising infrastructure, equipment, and digital systems.

According to SFRS, future investment aims to ensure firefighters have appropriate tools, vehicles, and facilities, particularly in relation to contaminant reduction and environmental standards.

The service said it would consider expanding its role in communities, such as supporting medical response or delivering other public services where appropriate.

SFRS also said it would adopt more efficient internal processes and automate routine functions to increase organisational capacity.

These changes will be supported by research, data analysis and cross-sector collaboration.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service 2025–28 strategy focuses on safety, risk and reform: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has published its strategy for 2025 to 2028.

The strategy sets five objectives: prevention, response, people, performance and innovation.

It responds to changes in risk, including more wildfires and flooding.

SFRS said its prevention focus includes vulnerable groups and national partnerships.

Operational response will be shaped by climate change and new training.

Staff wellbeing, inclusion and leadership development are identified as priorities.

Investment is planned in fleet, equipment and fire station facilities.

Digital systems and automation will be used to improve productivity.

The strategy includes a new delivery plan, overseen by the SFRS Board.

It aligns with national government guidance and local authority needs.

Progress will be measured through performance dashboards and public reporting.

The strategy document is available on the SFRS website.

Deliberate fires divert Scottish firefighters from emergencies says SFRS

by Featured NewsResearch

Fire crews in Scotland tackled over 3,000 deliberate fires last summer

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported that more than 3,000 deliberate fires occurred across Scotland in the summer of 2024.

According to SFRS, 3,195 deliberate fires were recorded between June and August.

This equates to an average of over 30 fire-setting incidents every day.

The fires included grass, woodland, crop, refuse, residential, commercial and derelict buildings.

SFRS stated that although the number of incidents was lower than in previous years, each call diverts crews from other emergencies.

Summer fire activity lowest since 2020 but remains disruptive

The SFRS noted that the 2024 summer period recorded the fewest deliberate fires since 2020.

Despite this, the organisation highlighted ongoing challenges due to the frequency and spread of such incidents.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson, SFRS Director of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness, said: “If our crews are putting out more than 30 deliberate fires a day during summer then that’s time that could be spend elsewhere dealing with genuine emergencies.

“Deliberate fire-setting, whether it’s affecting a derelict building or woodland, is a crime and it can have a serious impact on local communities, as well as the potential for someone to get badly hurt or worse.

“We want those responsible to understand that getting involved in this type of behaviour can also impact negatively on your future.

“We’ll continue to take a zero-tolerance approach and will work with our police partners to identify those responsible.”

The fire service explained that deliberate fire-setting incidents are particularly disruptive in rural and high-risk areas.

It added that every call-out to this type of incident can delay response to house fires, road traffic collisions, or medical emergencies.

Police call fire-setting reckless and damaging to communities

Police Scotland has supported SFRS in highlighting the harm caused by deliberate fire-setting.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: “Setting fires deliberately is reckless and irresponsible. It can endanger lives and result in significant damage to property.

“It also causes fear and alarm to those living in the local area and diverts valuable emergency service resources.

“We remain committed to working with our partners to reduce the number of these crimes taking place.

“We would urge anyone with information on fires being set in their community to contact police via 101, or 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”

Police Scotland reported that they are working closely with fire crews to trace those responsible for fire-setting.

The service said it encourages members of the public to report any suspicious activity near property or open land.

Joint efforts between SFRS and Police Scotland to identify offenders

SFRS and Police Scotland said they are continuing to carry out joint patrols in areas with repeat incidents.

They noted that CCTV, witness accounts and forensic evidence are used in investigations.

The fire service confirmed that education campaigns are being run in schools and community groups to deter youth involvement in fire-setting.

Police Scotland added that some arrests had been made in connection with fire-starting cases during 2024, although no figures were released in the latest statement.

Both organisations stressed that prevention efforts were ongoing and would be maintained throughout the 2025 summer period.

Fire-setting includes both open land and buildings

The SFRS explained that the range of deliberate fire settings includes various environments, with no single category accounting for the majority.

Incidents were reported in grassland, urban streets, and commercial premises.

Fires in derelict buildings were described as a recurring risk, often posing danger to firefighters due to unstable structures.

The fire service also highlighted concerns over setting refuse alight in bins near homes, which can spread rapidly to occupied properties.

SFRS stated that many fires occur in remote areas, requiring extensive travel times and resource deployment.

Deliberate fires in Scotland impact emergency response: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service reported 3,195 deliberate fires during summer 2024.

This equates to an average of over 30 incidents per day across Scotland.

Incidents included fires in grassland, woodland, crops, buildings and refuse.

The 2024 figure represents the lowest summer total since 2020.

SFRS said these incidents divert crews from other emergency calls.

Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson stated that fire-setting poses serious risk to communities.

Police Scotland said the behaviour is reckless and damages property.

Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland urged the public to report suspicious activity.

Both organisations confirmed that joint investigations are ongoing.

Patrols and forensic investigations are being used to identify suspects.

Prevention campaigns are being delivered to young people in affected areas.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service upgrades Newcraighall fire station with £2.5m investment

by Featured News

Fire station refurbishment enhances firefighter welfare and safety

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has completed a £2.5 million refurbishment of Newcraighall Community Fire Station in Edinburgh.

The upgrades include improved changing, cleaning, and welfare facilities for firefighters, as well as dedicated areas for study and rest.

The new layout is designed to prevent the spread of fire contaminants by introducing specific areas for handling contaminated equipment.

Firefighters are also encouraged to shower within an hour of returning from incidents.

Investment supports modernisation of Scotland’s fire service

The refurbishment is part of a wider programme aimed at modernising fire stations across Scotland.

SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer (DACO) Andrew Girrity, who oversees service delivery in the East area, said: “This major refurbishment of Newcraighall ensures our firefighters have access to state-of-the-art facilities that not only support their wellbeing but enhance their critical work in keeping communities safe.”

The upgrades were completed ahead of schedule and are intended to meet the evolving needs of Scotland’s fire service.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety visits Newcraighall station

Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown MSP visited the newly refurbished fire station on 27 February 2025 to review the improvements.

Siobhian Brown MSP said: “I was grateful for the opportunity to see the difference that this £2.5 million investment in modern facilities is making to firefighters at Newcraighall Community Fire Station.”

She also noted an increase in capital funding for SFRS from £43 million to £47 million in the 2025-26 Budget, which will support further investment in property, fleet, and equipment.

Future investment in fire stations across Scotland

The Scottish Government’s funding increase will allow SFRS to continue refurbishing and upgrading fire stations to improve firefighter welfare and operational efficiency.

Siobhian Brown MSP said: “I look forward to seeing more examples of how investment is improving facilities for firefighters as part of SFRS’s programme of fire station refurbishments.”

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service upgrades Newcraighall fire station with £2.5m investment: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has completed a £2.5 million refurbishment of Newcraighall Community Fire Station in Edinburgh.

The project includes upgraded changing, cleaning, and welfare facilities for firefighters, along with areas for studying and rest.

The new layout is designed to prevent fire contaminants from spreading within the station.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Andrew Girrity stated that the upgrades will support firefighter wellbeing and enhance their ability to protect communities.

Minister for Victims and Community Safety Siobhian Brown MSP visited the station on 27 February 2025 and highlighted the government’s increased capital funding for SFRS, which will support further investment in fire stations, fleet, and equipment.

The refurbishment is part of a broader initiative to modernise fire stations across Scotland, ensuring that facilities meet the needs of firefighters and the communities they serve.

Accidental house fires in Scotland reach lowest level in over a decade, according to Scottish Fire and Rescue Service

by Featured NewsResearch

Accidental house fires at record low in Scotland

New figures from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) reveal that firefighters responded to over 3,800 accidental house fires across Scotland last year, the lowest number recorded since 2010.

This marks an 18% decrease over the past decade, as reported by the SFRS.

Despite this reduction, more than a quarter of the affected homes did not have smoke detectors installed.

SFRS Deputy Chief Officer (DCO) Andy Watt expressed concern, noting the importance of smoke alarms in early fire detection.

He stated: “Smoke alarms are the best way of providing early detection of a fire and I’d strongly encourage everyone to have interlinked smoke alarms installed within their home.”

SFRS home fire safety efforts highlighted

The SFRS attributes the decrease in accidental fires to its focus on fire prevention initiatives, including its Home Fire Safety Visit programme.

According to DCO Watt, over half a million homes have been visited since 2013 to assess and mitigate fire risks.

DCO Watt commented: “Prevention is at the core of what we do, and our staff work tirelessly to share life-saving knowledge and guidance with communities to help prevent fire from occurring.”

SFRS firefighters attended more than 80,000 emergency incidents last year.

Additionally, 42 fire-related deaths were recorded, which represents a slight decrease from the previous year’s figure of 43.

While these figures remain stable, the SFRS is focused on supporting vulnerable community members who are at greater risk.

SFRS prioritises support for vulnerable groups

DCO Watt emphasised the SFRS’s dedication to assisting at-risk groups, including older individuals and those with specific health conditions.

He stated: “We’re working tirelessly to support the most vulnerable members of our communities, but it’s true that people of a certain age or who live with certain health conditions remain more at risk of fire.”

In addition to fire incidents, Scottish firefighters responded to over 16,000 non-fire incidents last year, covering emergencies such as flooding and road traffic collisions.

This represents the second-highest number of non-fire incidents on record for the service.

Decline in unwanted fire alarm signals and deliberate fire-setting

Deliberate fire-setting incidents across Scotland have also dropped to their lowest levels on record, although these still account for 55% of the 24,000 fires attended by SFRS crews last year.

Another key change was in unwanted fire alarm signals (UFAS), which nearly halved over the year.

A policy shift in July 2023 means firefighters now respond only to automatic alarm activations in commercial buildings where there is an evident risk of fire, thus reducing non-emergency callouts.

DCO Watt noted: “Countless hours were spent responding to avoidable alarm activations, often caused by human error or faulty equipment.

“It’s very pleasing to see the number of UFAS incidents reduce so significantly, and we remain committed to continuing to work with our communities and businesses on this area.”

Accidental house fires in Scotland reach lowest level in over a decade, according to Scottish Fire and Rescue Service: Summary

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has reported a notable reduction in accidental house fires, with figures indicating the lowest level since 2010.

Firefighters responded to over 3,800 accidental fires in homes across Scotland last year, an 18% decrease over the past decade.

Despite this improvement, a significant number of affected homes lacked smoke alarms, underscoring the importance of fire detection devices in homes.

The SFRS has focused on preventive efforts, such as its Home Fire Safety Visit programme, to reduce risks.

Additionally, unwanted fire alarm signals (UFAS) have dropped by almost half following a policy change.

The SFRS continues to work with communities and businesses to sustain these gains, particularly supporting vulnerable groups who are more susceptible to fire-related incidents.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service warns of resource drain from deliberate fires

by Featured NewsSafetyWildland Fire

SFRS records high number of deliberate fires

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has warned of a potential drain on resources if deliberate fire incidents reach last year’s levels.

Between June and August 2023, SFRS recorded approximately 3,900 deliberate fires.

Of these, more than 3,200 were classified as secondary fires, which include incidents involving derelict buildings, unoccupied buildings, grassland, and refuse.

The statistics noted 87 deliberate fires in derelict buildings and 54 in unoccupied buildings.

Additionally, there were 1,428 deliberate fires affecting grassland and 1,399 deliberate refuse fires.

SFRS launches Safer Summer 2024 campaign

As part of its efforts to combat anti-social behaviour and deliberate fires, SFRS has launched the Safer Summer 2024 campaign.

The campaign is designed to address the risks posed by deliberate fires and to reduce their occurrence during the summer months.

Assistant Chief Officer David Lockhart, SFRS Director of Prevention, Protection and Preparedness, highlighted the strain these fires place on resources: “Firefighters across Scotland were called to over 40 deliberate fires daily last summer which is a needless drain in our resources.”

He added: “Most of these fires were secondary fires, involving derelict buildings, unoccupied buildings, grassland, and refuse.

In terms of derelict buildings in particular, these structures have the potential to cause great risk to members of the public so please do not think of entering them for any reason.”

Collaboration with partners to reduce fire incidents

SFRS is collaborating with partners, including Police Scotland and Fearless, a youth service of Crimestoppers, to identify those responsible for deliberate fires.

Lyndsay McDade, Fearless Scotland Manager at Crimestoppers, urged everyone to contribute to reducing fire risks.

She said: “Deliberate fires are often started with no understanding of how quickly they can get out of hand and cause not only significant damage but serious injury and risk to life.

Fearless works closely with partner agencies, including SFRS, to reduce anti-social behaviour and deliberate fire setting.”

McDade also encouraged anonymous reporting of those responsible for starting fires: “If you know who is responsible for starting unsafe fires in your community you can speak up to our charity 100% anonymously at Fearless.org.

“We can’t track your IP address or any contact details.”

Raising awareness among young people

SFRS is urging parents, carers, and teachers to ensure children and young people are aware of the risks and consequences of deliberate fire setting.

The Service emphasises the importance of community involvement in preventing these incidents and ensuring the safety of the public.

The collaboration with Crimestoppers and Police Scotland aims to create a safer environment by addressing and mitigating the causes of deliberate fires.