Martin Whitfield MSP is backing a new VisitScotland campaign to help both visitors and locals enjoy Scotland safely and responsibly.

Scotland’s national tourism body is using social media, local radio and digital marketing to educate, inspire and inform people about issues such as water safety, fire safety, dog control and the need to adhere to the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

These themes have been developed in close consultation with stakeholders and reflect feedback on the issues which arose most during 2021, including problems with wild camping, countryside fires and water safety.

Martin Whitfield MSP said:

“The growth in visitors during the pandemic brought many benefits for local communities and businesses across Scotland. However, more people visiting also resulted in more problems, some of which, such as water and fire safety, are of real concern for the wellbeing of the tourists, local people and our natural environment.

“Local authorities, Police Scotland and other agencies did their best to respond to the challenges presented by the increased number of visitors, but we can certainly do more to ensure people are more aware of the issues and ensure they have the skills and knowledge to be able to enjoy the outdoors responsibly.

“This VisitScotland campaign is an important and welcome contribution to wider efforts to enhance visitor management and safety and I hope it can help to reduce the incidence of some of the issues we’ve experienced over the last couple of years.”

Find out more about the campaign and the assets available for promoting it locally at Responsible Tourism: Visitor Guide for Businesses | VisitScotland.org