Reduce Risk Of Fire During Dry Times
The high wind and low humidity conditions much of the state has been facing lately, combined with an abundance of dormant grass left over from the wet spring and summer, has made for an increased risk of wildfires throughout much of the state. The East Texas area has had quite a number of small grass and woodland fires already. Be prepared and follow some tips from the Texas Forest Service to keep you safe during this time.
Be extremely cautious about any outdoor activities that might cause sparks or fires. Sparks can easily escape from burning trash. Avoid use of welding or grinding equipment near weeds and grass. Avoid parking vehicles in tall, dry grass and weeds that could be ignited by hot catalytic converters. When in your vehicle, crush smoking materials in your ashtray and make sure they are really out.
Monitor TV and radio broadcasts before you get on the highway and check fire and weather conditions as you travel. Watch for highway signs, traffic control personnel and fire fighters. Slow down and be prepared to stop if they signal you to do so. If you see dense smoke on the road, do not drive into it. Slow down, prepare to stop and turn around. Activate your emergency flashers to warn vehicles behind you. Check for oncoming traffic and make sure you can turn around safely.
Wildfire propelled by strong winds can move as fast as 60 miles per hour. When told to evacuate, leave the area immediately. Choose a route that leads away from the fire. Stay alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke. If you have time to get prepared, shut gas off at the meter and turn off propane tanks. Wet down your roof and shrubbery within 15 feet of your residence. Park your vehicle facing in the direction of escape.
Whether you live in a rural or suburban area, you can protect your home from the dangers of wildfire. Protect your property by clearing brush and grass away from your home and buildings. Clear brush from areas between the trees. Prune lower branches. Make sure areas under utility lines are clear of brush, tall grass and trees so that utility service will continue. Create a fire break by clearing vegetation from areas between your house and nearby fields or undeveloped land.
Find out if your county has a burn ban prohibiting fires out of doors. Keep a fire extinguisher and water handy when working outdoors with equipment that gets hot. If possible, wet down outdoor work areas in advance. Keep mufflers and spark arresters on agricultural equipment in good working order. When baling hay in the coming months, check for hot bearings or hay caught in the roller.
Create a defensible space of at least 30 feet around your house and outbuildings, closely mow lawns, prune trees from hanging over your house and make sure they are spaced widely apart.
Establish fuel breaks along roadways and between buildings and fields or woodlands.
When debris burning is allowed, establish wide control lines down to bare mineral soil prior to lighting the fire and stay with your fire until it is out.
The Texas Forest Service and Texas AgriLife Research produce daily maps that depict the wildfire danger for the state. These maps can be viewed by visiting
http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu and clicking on "Fire Dangers/Advisories" under "Features."
Brian Triplett is the Smith County Extension agent for agriculture and natural resources. He can be reached at 903-590-2980 or via e-mail at b-triplett@tamu.edu.
FAQ
Search Forums
Log in
Register
