Wildfire Awareness: Outdoor Activities

An estimated 90 percent of all Texas wildfires are caused by human activity. High winds and dry conditions can set the stage for potentially severe fires. The greatest single cause is when burning debris is not properly contained and sparks or burning trash blow into the air. Texans can help prevent fires if they:

• Are careful when pulling off a road or driving into a field. Hot catalytic converters can ignite vegetation.
• Avoid burning trash. Even a barrel covered with a screen can allow a spark to escape, igniting nearby vegetation.
• Do not use fireworks during holidays.
• If you smoke in your car, extinguish cigarettes in vehicle ashtrays. Never toss a cigarette out of a car window, and don’t put cigarettes out on the ground.
• Keep a fire extinguisher and water handy when working outdoors with equipment that gets hot, or involves sparks, such as welding equipment. Water down outdoor work areas in advance if possible.

For more information on fire danger and advisories visit the Texas Forest Service website.