Firefighters are urging people to stay at home following several instances of suspected deliberate fire-raising across the north-east.
Station commander for prevention and protection in Aberdeenshire and Moray, Craig Shand, has reiterated appeals for people to stay at home rather than place an unnecessary strain on crews.
Six cases have been recorded in towns across Aberdeenshire in the past fortnight, including at Ellon and Mintlaw where areas of grass, branches and wood have been set alight.
Mr Shand said: “The overwhelming majority of people will be listening to advice and staying at home at this present time.
“However we have nonetheless encountered some suspected deliberate fire-setting.
“We would remind people that deliberate fire raising presents not only a risk to communities but also unnecessarily draws upon the resources of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and our partners.”
Mr Shand said the fire service is “trying to get the message across and limit the number of fires to keep our crew and the public safe throughout the pandemic”.
He said: “We would also like to take this opportunity to remind people to stay safe within their properties, as they spend more time at home.
“This can include ensuring not to overload sockets or leave cooking unattended. I would invite members of the public to visit our website for more information.”
Last month a derelict building in Macduff was set on fire prompting a joint investigation with the police and fire service.
Two boys, aged 14 and 15, and a 13-year-old girl have been charged with wilful fireraising in relation to the incident.