Vigilance key to preventing grass fires

The entire county and surrounding area may be arid thanks to low rainfall totals, but as Independence Day approaches, there is no need for a burn ban in Cherokee County - just yet.

County Judge Chris Davis recently announced that Cherokee County is not currently under a burn ban, but said that citizens should be careful and vigilant with fireworks as well as other burning activities. It is a sentiment that is carried statewide.

Fireworks and outdoor activities are commonly linked to Fourth of July celebrations, but the Texas Forest Service (TFS) warns that carelessness with fireworks and other outdoor activities can lead to a wildfire.

With summer in full swing, grass, shrubs and trees have started to dry out. These dry "fuels" and an errant spark from fireworks or a grill is all that is needed to start a devastating wildfire.

"Many Texans use fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July," TFS Fire Operations Chief Mark Stanford said. "TFS encourages Texans to use fireworks safely. Citizens should be diligent in protecting themselves and their property from accidental wildfires."

Sandra Taylor, TFS fire prevention specialist I, said citizens should keep fireworks away from homes and structures, which can be accidently ignited. She says there are a few tips to adhere to when using fireworks.

"Fireworks should only be used under close adult supervision and in safe areas, away from grass and brush," she said.

"A water hose, bucket of water and wet towels should be kept nearby in case they are needed to stop small fires. Used fireworks should be disposed of in a bucket of water."

Other outdoor activities also can lead to dangerous wildfires. TFS recommends the following tips to keep the outdoors safe when grilling and camping:

- Build campfires in open, level spots away from trees and overhanging branches; preferably in designated fire rings or fire receptacles.

- Never leave a campfire or cooking fire unattended and extinguish a fire completely before leaving it.

- When dry, windy conditions occur while dead grass, weeds and/or leaves are present, consider using a propane stove or barbecue grill instead of an open fire for cooking. A fire is not safe to leave until it is cool enough to touch.

- Put barbecue grills over bare dirt or other fire resistant surfaces - well away from dead grass and weeds.

- Completely extinguish coals and ashes with water. Never transport a barbecue pit or grill with live coals.

TFS said all citizens should check with local government officials or fire departments to ensure that campfires and fireworks are allowed.

They also recommended that anyone using fireworks comply with all fireworks restrictions in order to prevent wildfires.

Under Texas law, the authority to restrict fireworks and implement burn bans is left up to county government officials.

For more information, visit the TFS website at http://texasforestservice. tamu.edu/.