by Megan McQAust » Thu Jun 02, 2011 12:40 am
Congratulations Paul on your walk and wonderful photos - I do have some concerns though about an apparent blase approach to wildfire. The combination of radiant heat and smoke inhalation is extremely dangerous. You are extremely lucky to have walked through it, I ask that others do not follow your example. It is heartening that fire fighters were actively dousing flames early.
We in the antipodes are very much aware how dangerous an approaching bushfire is.
All hillwakers should pay particular care to the use of fire and cooking equipment - making sure that all fire is in a cleared space, preferably 3 feet either side; that all fires if lit are absolutrely extinguished before leaving them - preferably covered with soil or extinguished with water.
Australia suffers dangerous bushfires annually - the last 2 years ago with severe loss of life (173 people dead), significant injurues, losses of homes (about 2000) and huge loss of endangered flora and fauna.
The thought of the Scottish mountains and moors being obliterated by fire is a major concern.
Please care for the environment which gives you so much pleasure, contentment, challenge & clean air. Love it and protect it & PLEASE DO NOT WALK THROUGH BUSHFIRES!!!!