The Texas A&M Forest Service recently raised its wildland fire preparedness level to Level 3 due to continued heat and dryness. There is also an increase in current and expected wildfire activity across Texas.
Due to the increased likelihood of fires, several resources are being dispatched to Victoria to better serve the area. Ground resources include the TIFMAS Engine Strike Team and the Emergency Medical Task Force.
Aviation resources include three single-engine air tankers (SEATS). These resources have been mobilized in Victoria to support the state’s efforts in bushfire response and suppression.
It’s important to note that 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by humans. The Texas A&M Forest Service appreciates your help in educating residents about the importance of wildfire prevention and preparedness.
Currently, the most common causes of Texas wildfires are careless debris burning and equipment use, but these are also easily preventable. Now that temperatures are dropping, more residents are venturing outside in the evening to clean their yards, burn debris, or light fireplaces.
The Texas A&M Forest Service would like to encourage residents to engage in safe debris burning activities and to use caution when driving or idling on dry grass.
• Check with local authorities to see if any outdoor bonfire regulations or bonfire bans are in place. Do not burn debris if a county burn ban is in effect.
• Be aware of current and expected weather conditions and avoid burning on hot, dry, windy days.
• Keep debris piles small and manageable, allowing at least 10 feet of space around the debris pile and removing vegetation and combustible materials. Wet the area around the burn mark.
• Always have a source of water available and near a fire. Allow the fire to cool completely before leaving it unattended.
• Avoid driving or parking on tall, dry grass. If the catalytic converter under your car is exposed to dry vegetation, it can cause a wildfire. Catalytic converters operate between 550 and 1600°F and can reach 2000°F if the engine is not running properly.
• Stay on designated roads and trails.
• If you park on the side of the road, park on the asphalt.
If your local jurisdiction has a community incinerator or provides debris collection, remind residents of its availability and requirements and restrictions. Residents are also reminded of the outdoor fire restrictions and fire bans currently in place.
