By Justin Walker
Communications Specialist
While many people celebrate our nation’s independence on the Fourth of July, the Texas A&M Forest Service warns that common practices could spark disaster.
Campfires, grilling and fireworks are all expected sights on this holiday, but the increase in these activities combined with current drought conditions raise wildfire concerns, according to Phillip Truitt, communications specialist with Texas A&M Forest Service.
“It can be a real concern, especially with all the dry vegetation we have in many parts of the state. From North Texas to the Hill Country, West Texas—even Northeast Texas is still dry,” he said. “With all of these dry areas and more people being outside, we definitely could see an increase in wildfire activity.”
According to the Texas Water Development Board’s Water Weekly report, 48 percent of Texas is experiencing some level of drought, compared to just 6 percent from this time last year.
And 130 counties have implemented burn bans as of July 3.
Parts of the state received much-needed rainfall in mid-June, but it wasn’t enough to decrease drought conditions.
“Some of the rains have helped alleviate some concerns on the coast or slow down activity in Far West Texas, but we haven’t had enough for the good majority of Texas to get us out of fire season,” Truitt said.
While the drought alone plays a role in wildfires, the increase of outdoor activities on the holiday adds fuel to the situation. About 90 percent of fires are started by human activities, and Independence Day is a big day for fires to break out.
“We have more people outdoors, and you have a lot of folks who go outdoors who aren’t used to being out there,” he said. “Some of them are not even cognizant of driving or parking their vehicles in tall grass. Because all of these folks aren’t used to being out there, you have an increase in fires.”
There are steps farmers and ranchers can take to alleviate the chances of Fourth of July-related fires breaking out on their land, Truitt said. Making sure people are aware it is private land and keeping gates closed will go a long way.
“The other thing is to contact your local fire department,” he said. “If you have a lot of fires in your area, I would reach out to them and let them know of your concerns.”
If you or others you may know plan to set off fireworks this year, be sure to follow these tips provided by the Forest Service:
- Before you celebrate, always check with local government officials to ensure fireworks and outdoor burning are allowed in your county. Be sure to comply with all 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.
“It takes a team to fight wildfires,” Truitt said. “As a producer, as a state, as local firefighters, we all have to work together. If we all take small steps and all do our part, we can help make Texas safe this holiday.”