Important Wildfire Information
Texans now face severe danger of wildfire. 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.
Don’t Drive into Smoke on the Road
Monitor TV and radio broadcasts before you travel and check fire and weather conditions as you go. 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 Precautions for Rural Homes and Suburbs
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 firebreak by clearing vegetation from areas between your house and nearby fields or wild land areas.
Wildfire Tips for Farms and Ranches
You should postpone outdoor burning as long as brush and foliage remain dry. 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, check for hot bearings or hay caught in rollers.
In Case of Evacuation
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.
Editor’s Note: This information is from The Texas AgriLife Extension Service and the Texas Forest Service.