LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
According to the Texas Forest Service, over the past few weeks, wildfires raging across Texas have burned nearly a half-million acres -- and that figure is likely to grow as conditions are expected to get even worse.
The dangerous conditions are caused by two main factors: the ongoing drought and an overabundance of dead vegetation that burns easily.
Education and understanding are key to preventing fires during dry conditions.
The Lackland Fire Department offers the following tips for preventing grass fires:
· Don't throw cigarette or cigar butts on the ground or out a vehicle. Dispose of them properly and make sure they are completely extinguished.
· Do not burn trash, leaves or brush outdoors; there currently is a burn ban in-place throughout Texas.
· Keep a 30-foot "safety zone" surrounding the home clear of brush and cedar, especially for those living in a woodland area. Grass should be cut short in this area as well. For homes that set on a steep slope, the safety zone should be increased accordingly.
· Stack firewood at least 15 feet and uphill from the home.
· Rake leaves, cut off dead limbs and twigs, and mow grass regularly. Cut tree limbs within 15 feet of the ground and remove dead branches that extend over the roof.
· Don't park cars, trucks, or recreational vehicles on dry grass or shrubs. Exhaust systems on vehicles can reach a temperature of more than 1,000 degrees; it only takes about 500 degrees to start a brush fire in the summer.
· Use an approved spark arrester on all internal combustion engine-powered equipment. This special muffler helps ensure that sparks generated by off-road vehicles, chainsaws and other equipment don't start wildfires. Check and replace spark arresters periodically.
· Parents should emphasize to their children the dangers of playing with fire. Many grass fires are started by children who have no idea how quickly flames can grow and spread.
· Homeowners who barbecue should maintain a 10-foot area free of brush and shrubbery around grills and propane tanks. Non-flammable screens should be placed over the grill, with mesh no coarser than ¼ inch thick. Never leave a grill unattended. After use, place grill ashes in a metal bucket and soak in water.
· Keep a shovel, bucket of water, fire extinguisher, or other fire suppression tools on hand.
Lackland AFB Instruction 32-2001, Fire Prevention Program, paragraph 1.5, prohibits open burning of any kind, including camp fires, unless coordinated with the fire chief and approved by the base civil engineer.
For questions or more information, call 671-5253.
(Courtesy Lackland Fire Department)