As wildfire potential continues across Texas, the Texas A&M Forest Service advises Texans to prepare and keep prevention in mind.

A Texas A&M FOrest Service - Fire logo is seen on the side of a pickup truck parked next to a burned space with smoke
Texas A&M Forest Service officials are advising Texans to be preventative and prepared as fire conditions ramp up in parts of the state. (Sam Craft/Texas A&M AgriLife Marketing)

“Dry conditions will persist into the weekend, continuing this week’s risk for wildfires,” said Jared Karns, Texas A&M Forest Service fire chief. “It’s important for Texans to prepare for wildfires, work to prevent them and heed warnings of local officials.”

Since Jan. 1, state and local firefighters have responded to 462 wildfires that have burned 9,093 acres statewide.

People and planning make a difference

Ninety percent of wildfires are caused by people and their activities, meaning most are preventable. Help prevent wildfires by being cautious with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.

  • Debris burning is the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Texas. Always check for and follow local burn bans and avoid burning on hot, dry or windy days.
  • Equipment is the second leading cause of wildfires. Keep all vehicles in good working order and avoid parking and driving in tall, dry grass. Catalytic converters can spark dry grass.

Prepare your family for wildfire.

  • Create a go kit. Build a kit with people and pet supplies, prescriptions, important papers, personal needs and priceless items.
  • Plan evacuation routes. Identify at least two evacuation routes and pre-load evacuation routes into your vehicle or cell phone.
  • Follow instructions of local officials. Sign up for local alerts and notifications from local emergency response officials.

Preparing for response

By the direction of Gov. Greg Abbott and the Texas Division of Emergency Management, Texas A&M Forest Service has activated state and local firefighters, support personnel, fire engines, bulldozers and motor graders, federally contracted firefighting aircraft, including large air tankers, single-engine air tankers for retardant drops, air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting, and helicopters with firefighting capability.

Learn more about the current wildfire situation and how you can prepare at https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/CurrentSituation/. 

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