Roughly nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are started by people, according to the forest service.
COLLEGE STATION, Texas — The Texas A&M Forest Service is reminding locals to be cautious with their outdoor activities — like setting off fireworks — as July 4 draws closer.
“Wildfire potential is not expected to be high across Texas this Fourth of July weekend,” Luke Kanclerz, predictive services department head, said in a news release.
Roughly nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are started by people, according to the forest service. The Independence Day holiday routinely ranks as one of the top days for the start of wildfires in Texas.
The forest service is urging the public to attend public shows hosted by professionals, but offers the following tips if they plan on setting fireworks off at home:
- Before you celebrate, always check with local government officials for any burn bans or other restrictions. 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.
The Texas A&M Forest Service is also reminding the public of these tips to avoid sparking fires during hot, dry stretches:
- Avoid parking and idling in tall, dry grass. Catalytic converters can get hot enough to ignite the grass under a vehicle.
- Ensure chains and other metal parts aren’t dragging from your vehicle—they throw sparks.
- Avoid placing your grill near flammable vegetation or materials, never leave your grill unattended, and ensure coals are completely extinguished when you are done.