FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 27, 2024
Prevent
wildfires this Fourth of July as hot and dry conditions persist
COLLEGE STATION, Texas—As Texans make plans to celebrate the
Fourth of July, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages everyone to be careful
with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.
Approximately 90% of wildfires are caused by humans and their
activities, and the Fourth of July is one of the top days for reported
wildfires.
Texas A&M Forest Service and local fire officials advise
the public to be aware of the very warm and dry conditions that may contribute
to wildfire activity as the holiday approaches. While large, resistant
wildfires are not expected, little to no rainfall has fallen across north and
northeast Texas since early June. Hot and dry weather conditions reduce the
moisture content in grass and woody vegetation, which increases the potential
for wildfire ignitions.
“As we start to observe typical summer weather
with conditions becoming hotter and drier, we anticipate wildfire activity to
increase,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. “State
and local firefighters are prepared to respond quickly but we need Texans to be
careful and prevent wildfire ignitions while conditions are hot and dry.”
The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public show hosted
by professionals. If you plan to set off your own fireworks:
- Always check for and
comply with local government officials burn bans or other restrictions.
- Read and follow all
warnings and instruction labels on fireworks.
- Use fireworks only
under close adult supervision and in safe areas away from structures, dry grass
and brush.
- Keep a hose, bucket
of water and wet towels nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.
- Dispose of used
fireworks in a bucket of water.
- Never ignite
fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
To
help prevent wildfires during hot and dry conditions:
- Avoid parking and
idling in tall, dry grass. Catalytic converters can get hot enough to ignite
the grass under a vehicle.
- Ensure chains and
other metal parts aren’t dragging from your vehicle—they throw sparks.
- Avoid placing your
grill near flammable vegetation or materials, never leave your grill
unattended, and ensure coals are completely extinguished when you are done.
Burn bans and fireworks restrictions are determined by county
governments. Texas A&M Forest Service does not determine, set or lift these
restrictions. For information on burn bans, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/burnbans/.
For additional wildfire prevention tips, visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/summerwildfires/.
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Texas A&M
Forest Service Contact:
Information
Officer, 979-255-0591, information@tfs.tamu.edu