Labor Day is upon us and as we head outside to enjoy the last days summer, Texas A&M Forest Service urges Texans to celebrate carefully.
Temperatures are usually the highest this time of year, which increases the possibility for wildfire danger.
According Texas A&M Forest Service Predictive Services Department Head Tom Spencer, due to the ongoing drought conditions an elevated wildfire potential could develop in parts of North Central, South Central and South Texas.
Specific areas of concern include the cities of Abilene, Wichita Falls, Austin, San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and Brownsville.
It was three years ago, during Labor Day weekend, that the most destructive wildfire in Texas’ history was recorded. The Bastrop County Complex Fire burned for 37 days, scorching more than 32,000 acres and destroying 1,660 homes.
Keep the following tips in mind to ensure you and your family have a safe Labor Day weekend:
- Check with your county judge for current burn bans.
- Be aware when grilling on wooden decks or in dry grass.
- Keep water handy in case of fire.
- When transporting portable pits, be sure the fire is extinguished.
- Completely extinguish all smoking materials.
- Remember your vehicle’s exhaust system can ignite a fire when driving through or stopped in dry vegetation.
- Report all fires immediately to 911.
For more information on preventing wildfires, visit: Texasfirewise.com
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Jan Amen, Fire Prevention Specialist
936-546-1004, [email protected]
Texas A&M Forest Service Communications
979-458-6606, [email protected]
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