Scotland has been placed under two wildfire warnings on Friday and through the weekend as frost, humidity, sunshine and wind could spark blazes.
The southwest is at "extreme" risk whilst central east Scotland is at "very high" risk, warns the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS). Due to the time of year, the large amount of dead grass and heather left over from last year could act as "fuel" for wildfires over a wide area.
The increased risks are due to the weather as dry conditions this weekend mingling with low humidity, warm air to the south and cold air to the north, explained the SFRS.
John Harvey, an SFRS station commander, said: "Over the next few days while this wildfire warning is in place, we urge people to act safely and responsibly in the countryside.
"Wildfires have devastating effects on our countryside and are extremely damaging to the environment, wildlife and nearby communities. "With dry, winter conditions this weekend, wildfires could burn and spread with very high intensity in high-risk areas.
"Therefore, we are asking people to act responsibly when enjoying the outdoors, dispose of cigarettes carefully and please think twice before using anything involving a naked flame."
SFRS said many wildfires are started deliberately or are due to careless, reckless or irresponsible behaviour, and the risk is said to peak during early spring.
The fire service has recently launched a new prevention campaign called Care For Your Countryside.
People who live, work or are visiting rural areas in particular are being urged to exercise the utmost caution to avoid fires breaking out.
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