Six fire appliances, two all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), a Wildfire Support Unit and a water carrier are at the scene
Firefighters are continuing to tackle a wildfire in the Glenmore area of the Cairngorms National Park for a fourth consecutive day, supported by specialist resources and helicopter water-bombing operations.
The situation on the ground remains dynamic and continues to be influenced by changing weather conditions, particularly wind strength and direction.
However, there has been significant progress over the past 24 hours, with conditions on both the eastern flank, including the Strathnethyarea, and the western flank showing marked improvement compared with this time yesterday.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) continues to work in partnership with agencies and landowners to build on this progress.
The period between 3:00pm and 6:30pm remains the most challenging part of the day, as warmer temperatures and changing wind conditions can influence fire behaviour. Firefighters are continuing to monitor conditions closely and respond where required.
In light of the progress made, SFRS is reviewing its operational requirements and resource deployment for tonight and tomorrow. Crews remain fully committed to maintaining control of the incident and protecting local communities.
There are encouraging signs across the affected area, with visible improvements becoming increasingly evident. While this is positive, wildfires can change rapidly and unexpectedly, and it is important that we do not become complacent.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Michael Humphreys said: “We hope this update provides reassurance to local residents and communities. However, it is equally important that expectations are managed given the unpredictable nature of wildfire incidents and the ongoing influence of weather conditions.
“We would like to thank the partnership working of landowners and agencies and our local communities for their continued patience, and cooperation throughout this incident.”
Police and partners continue to respond to a large fire near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park.
The fire was reported around 11.50am on Wednesday, 15 July, 2026, and Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remain on scene.
Police Scotland is co-ordinating a multi-agency response and a number of properties and premises in the area have been evacuated as a precaution.
The C7 road, known locally as Ski Road, is closed at Coylumbridge.
Please avoid the area and check with your accommodation if you are due to travel in the coming days to check if it is still accessible.
Police have assisted walkers off the hill, and we are advising remaining walkers to continue to make efforts to get to safety. Anyone requiring emergency assistance should call 999. Please let family or friends know when you have returned.
The Care for People plans are in place, and partners have been in touch with vulnerable people in the area.
Nearby residents are asked to keep windows and doors closed. Anyone concerned about symptoms should check NHS24.
Unmanned aircraft should not be flown close to or within the airspace.
Drone pilots and operators are reminded it is an offence to fly over an ongoing emergency response without prior permission from emergency services.
Please check NOTAM information and Drone Safety Map before flying.
SCOTTISH Fire and Rescue Service said earlier: ‘We are currently in attendance at a large fire in the open near to Ryvoan Bothy within the Cairngorms National Park.
Operations Control were first alerted at 11.49am and we have mobilised four fire appliances and specialist wildfire resources to the area. There are no reported casualties.
‘Due to large volumes of smoke travelling towards populated areas nearby, residents in Aviemore, Glenmore and the surrounding communities should keep their windows and doors closed. If you are within this area and can see or smell smoke, please follow the same advice.
‘While we want people to enjoy the good weather, we ask that anyone in the Cairngorms National Park near to Aviemore and Glenmore avoids the area.’
The fifth annual World Drowning Prevention Day event returns to Loch Lomond Shores on Saturday July 25, 2026
The family‑friendly programme is designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.
Event supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), West Dunbartonshire Council, Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.
Water Safety Scotland will host its annual World Drowning Prevention Day event at Loch Lomond Shores, Balloch, on Saturday 25 July, 2026, offering a free, family‑friendly programme designed to raise awareness of water safety and support national efforts to prevent drowning.
Now in its fifth year, the event coincides with the launch of Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy, marking an important step forward in national efforts to prevent drowning.
The event is supported by Scottish Water, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS), Police Scotland, the Darcey Sunshine Foundation, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, and Scottish Canals.
Attendees can look forward to a packed programme of hands‑on, family‑friendly activities, including:
Discovering essential, life‑saving skills through the Water Safety Code
Live rescue demonstrations from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and the Scottish Newfoundland Club rescue dogs
Paddleboarding and canoeing taster sessions led by Paddle Scotland and CAG Adventures
A variety of interactive stands, offering engaging activities and practical safety advice.
The event runs from 11.00am to 3.00pm and is open to all, with families, young people and community groups especially encouraged to attend.
Carlene McAvoy, Founder of Water Safety Scotland and Head of Policy at RoSPA, said:“Raising awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have to save lives.
“With Scotland’s new Drowning Prevention Strategy launched, World Drowning Prevention Day gives us a vital opportunity to help people understand simple actions that can keep them and others safe around water.
“We want everyone to enjoy Scotland’s beautiful waterways, but to do so safely. Events like this offer a fun, supportive way to learn the skills and knowledge that make a real difference.”
Community Safety Minister, Kirsten Oswald, said:“The Scottish Government remains committed to promoting water safety and preventing accidents in our waterways.
“As we enjoy the summer, one that has been particularly warm, heading into the water often feels inviting, so I urge anyone planning to be in or around water to exercise caution and follow the safety advice available.
“The Water Safety Code sets out three key steps: stop and think, spot the dangers; stay together, stay close; and in an emergency, call 999.”
Peter Farrer, Chief Operating Officer at Scottish Water, said: “We cannot over-emphasise the importance of water safety all year round, but it’s particularly relevant during the summer months when people are often more likely to be around water.
“We’re delighted to be involved in this event again this year, it provides a valuable opportunity for us to have water-safety conversations with people to build the vital knowledge and skills to help people stay safer in, on and around water.”
With Scotland’s abundance of coastlines, lochs, rivers and reservoirs, it’s absolutely vital that everyone has the opportunity to learn basic water safety skills.”
Leigh Hamilton, Ranger Service Manager, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said:“We are pleased to support World Drowning Prevention Day once again and to welcome partners and communities back to Loch Lomond Shores for this important event.
“This year’s gathering comes as Scotland strengthens its national approach to drowning prevention with a new national Drowning Prevention Strategy, highlighting the importance of working together in places like the National Park, where millions of people visit every year.
“Even on the warmest days, Loch Lomond and other open water across the Park remain cold enough to trigger cold water shock, and hidden hazards or sudden changes in depth can impact the strongest swimmers. That’s why planning ahead, understanding local conditions and following the Water Safety Code remain essential for anyone spending time in or around our lochs and rivers.
“We look forward to encouraging people to respect the Loch Lomond Byelaws, to follow simple lifesaving guidance such as ‘Float to Live’, and to look out for one another. We want everyone to enjoy the National Park this summer, but to do so safely and responsibly.”
Anthony Mallon, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander and Community Safety Engagement for Prevention said:“We want people of all ages to be safe around water by understanding the risks and knowing how to prevent drowning.
“Education and drowning prevention remain central to our work to help communities safe. Our firefighters and Community Action Teams engage with community groups throughout Scotland, sharing practical advice on staying safe near water and what to do in an emergency.
“The key message for everyone is to follow the Water Safety Code: Stop and think, stay together, and in an emergency, float.”
Very High risk of wildfire warning for Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: 15-20 July
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, in conjunction with the Scottish Wildfire Forum (SWF) have issued a wildfire warning for some parts of Scotland:
Central Highlands, Southern and Eastern Scotland: from Wednesday, 15 July to Monday, 20 July, there will be a very high risk of wildfire.
SFRS’ Wildfire Tactical Advisor, Kevin Dingwall, said: “A very high wildfire risk is forecast across central highlands, southern and eastern Scotland later this week and into the weekend.
“We know many people will want to enjoy the warmer weather. If you’re spending time outdoors, please do so responsibly and take simple steps to prevent fires from starting.
“Hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfire across Scotland. Even if a warning is not in place where you live, we ask everyone to stay vigilant.
“Wildfires can destroy property, landscapes and wildlife. That’s why it’s so important that everyone takes extra care during these conditions.
“Avoid lighting outdoor fires or barbecues in affected areas, and remember that a single spark can cause significant damage. There is no such thing as a harmless fire.
“You can help by sharing wildfire warnings with your family, friends, and any visitors.”
If you see a large outdoor fire, call 999 immediately. Give the location and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.
Emergency services remain in attendance following a fire at a disused building on Princes Street, Edinburgh.
Officers were called to assist the Scottish Fire and Rescue around 3.05am on Thursday, 9 July, 2026. There are no reported injuries.
Firefighters and officers cannot enter the building as, at this time, it is deemed not safe to enter. Work is ongoing to ensure the area is made safe and enquiries are at an early stage.
The surrounding area of Princes Street remains closed, along with Rose Street, Frederick Street and Castle Street.
Members of the public are advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed where possible.
A joint investigation is ongoing to establish the cause of the fire.
Three Scottish Fire and Rescue Service firefighters deployed to Venezuela remain on the ground supporting ongoing search and rescue operations as part of the UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) response.
Working alongside colleagues from fire and rescue services across the UK, Station Commander Gavin Brown, Crew Commander Ian Hodgson and Firefighter Brian Richards continue to provide specialist expertise in challenging conditions.
The team has worked tirelessly alongside emergency service personnel from a number of countries, combining their expertise, training and operational experience to deliver coordinated search and rescue operations in support of communities affected by the earthquakes.
The UK ISAR team was deployed through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) at the request of the Venezuelan government and includes firefighters and staff from 14 fire and rescue services across the UK. Their ability to collaborate effectively in challenging conditions has been instrumental in delivering assistance to those most in need.
Speaking from Venezuela, Station Commander Gavin Brown said: “There are personnel from a range of fire and rescue services across the UK, and the ability to work together in a close-knit environment and adapt to any scenario has been incredibly important.
“Drawing on the skills we use in our day-to-day roles has enabled us to work effectively as a team and get the job done.”
SFRS Group Commander Andy Buchan, the UK ISAR Team Manager in Scotland, said: “Our firefighters remain in Venezuela supporting ongoing search and rescue operations as part of the wider UK ISAR response.
“The commitment, professionalism and resilience shown by everyone involved has been outstanding.
“What our team are experiencing during this deployment is intense. The scale of the devastation they have encountered is unlike anything they would face in their day-to-day duties back home, and they are dealing with those challenging circumstances every day throughout their deployment.”
Andy continued: “We continue to assess and support our firefighters before, during and after deployment to ensure their needs and overall wellbeing are being met, and that they have access to the right support at every stage of the process.”
Paramedics on Scene, the award-winning observational series documenting the work of the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS), premieres on BBC Scotland tonight – 28 June at 9pm.
The opening episode features an attack on two members of staff when a patient becomes violent, forcing Glasgow crewmates Gregg and Bernadette to take shelter.
Elsewhere, a frontline crew in Dundee treats a patient with a potentially fatal drug overdose, while SORT North responds to a suspected stroke. Viewers also follow an SAS call handler managing 999 calls relating to two road traffic collisions.
This season follows frontline ambulance crews in Aberdeen, Perth, Ayr and Dunoon, alongside SAS’s three Ambulance Control Centres. The Service’s Special Operations Response Teams (SORT) in the North and West, and the Air Ambulance Service, also return.
SAS Chief Executive Michael Dickson said: “We’re delighted Paramedics on Scene is back for another season, giving people the opportunity to see how the whole Service operates – from the 999 call, through ambulance dispatch, to the critical clinical response.
“It also highlights the challenges our staff face, including the unprovoked attacks featured in this first episode. Our colleagues experience violence and aggression on an almost daily basis. While these incidents represent only a small proportion of the thousands of patients we treat each year, they are completely unacceptable. Ambulance staff are dedicated to providing the best possible care for the public, and these incidents can have lasting consequences despite our best efforts.
We’d like to thank our valued partners at Firecrest, who do a brilliant job of bringing the show to life.”
Firecrest Films Head of Documentaries Mick McAvoy said: “It’s hugely exciting to see the new series hit our screens on BBC Scotland and the BBC iPlayer. Over the last year, we’ve had remarkable access to the Scottish Ambulance Service, following paramedics, emergency responders and call handlers as they work on the frontline.
“I believe this is our most hard-hitting series yet. Across ten episodes, viewers will see the challenges, pressures and dangers ambulance crews face every day, alongside the extraordinary skill and life-saving care they bring to those in need.
“Thanks to the generosity and commitment of everyone who took part, we’ve been able to capture a powerful and authentic insight into a service that aims to help people at the most critical moments in their lives.”
Steve Allen, BBC Scotland Commissioning Executive, Factual, said: “Paramedics on Scene offers audiences a compelling insight into the range of emergencies and the pressures Scotland’s ambulance crews face.
“This new series captures not only the intensity and unpredictability of frontline care, but also the remarkable skill, resilience and compassion shown by crews in some of the most challenging circumstances.”
Season seven of Paramedics on Scene airs on BBC Scotland at 9pm every Sunday and will also be available on BBC iPlayer.
POLICE are appealing for information following a fire in Edinburgh. Around 7.05pm on Monday, 25 May, 2026, we received a report of a fire at Arthur’s Seat.
Emergency services attended, and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service remained at the scene to dampen down hot spots.
No injuries were reported.
Enquiries are ongoing alongside partners to establish the cause of the fire.
Local Area Commander Alison MacDonald said: “We know that the area around Arthur’s seat was busy last night due to the good weather and would ask that anyone with any information surrounding the cause of the fire come forwand ard and speak with officers.
“Anyone with information should call Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2975 of 25 May, 2026.
“As the good weather continues, we will continue to work with our partner agencies and would encourage members of the public to stay safe and behave responsibly.”
Area Commander David Dourley is the Local Senior Officer for City of Edinburgh. He said: “At 6.50pm on Monday, 25 May, we were alerted to reports of a large grass fire on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh.
“We know many people will be wanting to enjoy the good weather, but we ask they do so responsibly. Wildfires have the potential to destroy property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is so important that members of the public use extreme caution under these conditions.
“Please avoid lighting outdoor fires and be mindful that one spark can spread rapidly, causing a large amount of damage.
“If you spot an outdoor fire, please report it immediately by calling 999, providing your location, and any other relevant information so we can respond quickly.”
Jamie Hamilton, Senior Ranger at Holyrood Park said; “We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to the emergency services for their quick response to this incident and would encourage anyone with any further information to come forward.
“We know that people are keen to enjoy the good weather but would ask them to remain vigilant and not to use any form of naked flame within the parameters of the park, dispose of rubbish properly, and to report anything of concern immediately.
“The High Road within the park has been closed to vehicles, and we would ask visitors to continue to follow guidance from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and avoid the affected areas.”
It’s important to talk to children and young people about their safety around water. Have a conversation about it today and explain:
• They should never swim in an unsupervised area like lochs, rivers, sea or ponds where there isn’t an adult to help if they get into trouble
• It’s much safer to go to a swimming pool where there’s a lifeguard on duty
• They shouldn’t play with or touch lifesaving equipment like life rings by the side of waterways. That equipment might be used to save someone’s life.
A youngster who suffered serious injuries after being trapped in a vehicle after a serious crash has been reunited with the SAS responders who helped him.
Thomas Bell, of Edinburgh, aged 12, was involved in the incident on May 8, which left him with serious injuries.
His dad, Grahame and Charlie, aged 10 at the time, were also in the vehicle.
The incident involved multiple SAS assets, including East SORT and EMRS West.
Thomas visited the Scottish Ambulance Service’s ScotSTAR base to meet up with some of the staff who assisted him, including Dr Tim Parke and Dr Jon McCormack.
Mum Orla said: “It was a very exciting day for the boys and an emotional one for my husband and I. Thomas spent more than 4 months in hospital, undergoing multiple complex surgeries.
“All of the emergency services helped save our son’s life and the NHS doctors and nurses gave him his future back. As parents, we simply could not have asked for better care, empathy and expertise. We will be forever grateful to all of the people involved and I will never stop saying thank you to you all.”
Dr Tim Parke, an emergency doctor who was on duty at the EMRS base in Glasgow, said: “Throughout the entire incident, Thomas remained completely calm and controlled. This was extraordinary considering the trauma of the accident and the injuries sustained.
“It was an honour to have played a small part in that journey.”
