Wildfire dangers linger in Texas Published Sept. 6, 2011 AUSTIN -- Wildfires remain an extreme danger across Texas. When fire breaks out near someone's community, it's critical they monitor media and to obey evacuation orders. Eighty percent of wildfires occur within two miles of residential neighborhoods and suburbs. When wildfires are moving at extreme speeds, they cannot be controlled. When advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Choose a route away from the fire hazard and be alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke. When weather conditions make wildfires more likely, prepare by taking the following precautions: Keep firefighting tools handy, such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and buckets. Place connected garden hoses on all sides of the house for emergency use. Know all emergency exits from the house. Learn all routes leading out of the neighborhood. As fires actually approach, take the following actions: Park vehicles facing the direction of escape. Shut off gas at the meter. Only a qualified professional can safely turn the gas back on. Turn off propane tanks. Place combustible patio furniture inside. Seal vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals. Wet down or remove shrubs within 15 feet of the house. Place lawn sprinklers on roof and near above-ground fuel tanks. Wet down the roof. Close windows, vents, doors, blinds and non combustible window coverings. Remove flammable drapes and curtains. Close interior doors and windows to prevent drafts. For more information on fire danger and advisories, see the Texas Forest Service Website at: http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu. WILDFIRE SAFETY Wildfire danger and outdoor activities Avoid parking vehicles in tall, dry grass and weeds. Weeds and grass could be ignited by hot catalytic converters. Crush cigarettes in an ashtray and make sure they are really out. Be cautious about outdoor activities that might cause sparks or fires. Sparks can easily escape from burning trash. Avoid using welding or grinding equipment near dry weeds and grass. Don't drive into smoke on the road Wind driven wildfire can move as fast as 60 miles per hour. Do not drive into dense smoke on the road. Slow down. Prepare to stop and turn around. Activate the emergency flashers to warn other vehicles. Check for oncoming traffic. Be sure to turn around safely. Remember, when there is dense smoke on the road, do not drive in to it. Stay alert to wildfire danger when traveling Check fire and weather conditions before getting on the road. Monitor radio broadcasts while traveling. In areas where there may be wildfire, watch for highway signs, traffic control personnel and fire fighters. Slow down and prepare to stop when they signal. Remember, wind driven wildfire can move as fast as 60 miles per hour. Do not drive into dense smoke on the road. (Courtesy of the Texas Department of Public Safety Media Relations Office.)
