More than 50 firefighters battle against Highlands wildfire

More than 50 firefighters are continuing to tackle a large wildfire in the Higlands.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) currently has six fire engines and specialist resources at the scene of the blaze at Ben Bhraggie, near Golspie.

Emergency services had first received calls alerting them to the fire shortly after midnight on Saturday.

Now residents in the area are being advised to keep windows and doors shut to protect themselves from smoke.

Group manager Billy McLintock, who was the officer in charge of the incident overnight, said it “remains a complex and challenging incident for crews on the ground”.

Fire crews are likely to stay on the scene “for some time”, he added.

He also stated: “We would advise nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke, and contact us should they have any concerns.”

Elisabeth Smart, a consultant in public health for NHS Highland, said: “The public being are advised to obey all instructions from essential services, to continue to keep away from the area and site and to check SFRS’ website for updates.

“The public should keep their windows and doors closed and if there is visible smoke they should remain indoors except for essential travel.

“Anyone exposed to the smoke who develops irritation to the air passages, skin, eyes or respiratory symptoms (coughing, wheezing and breathlessness) or any other unusual symptoms should contact NHS 24 on 111 in the first instance.?

“Individuals with heart or lung diseases such as asthma should ensure they have access to their medication especially inhalers and seek medical advice if their symptoms worsen.”