Nine out of ten wildfires are caused by people. Please be responsible and know the dos and don’ts of outdoor recreation and check for local outdoor fire restrictions and elevated fire weather conditions. If a wildfire occurs, the smoke may prevent everyone around you from seeing the eclipse. Do your part and don’t let a wildfire start!
- Parking on dry grass, dragging chains, or driving with low tire pressure could potentially spark a wildfire and should be avoided. Parking, idling, or driving over tall grass or dry vegetation can cause an ignition due to hot components in the undercarriage of the vehicle, including ATVs and UTVs. Only park in designated areas. Dragging tow chains can cause sparks when they strike the road, igniting vegetation along the road. Low tire pressure or tire failure can cause the wheel to strike the road, leading to spark that can ignite a wildfire.
https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/preventionresources/ - Campfire Safety: First, check if campfires are allowed and that no burn bans are in place locally. Then, select the right spot by constructing it at least 10 feet away from structures, tents, vehicles, or trees and clear of any overhead obstructions such as tree branches or powerlines. Use a metal fire ring or line around the fire with rocks and keep the campfire small. Clear the area around the fire to bare mineral soil. Always have a water source, bucket, and shovel nearby to properly put out a campfire. Use the drown, stir, drown, feel technique and remember: if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
https://smokeybear.com/en/prevention-how-tos - Report wildfires immediately! A quick response could save lives and property. Increased traffic may delay emergency responders, so every second counts. Stay aware of wildfires: https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/CurrentSituation/
- Arson: Wildland arson is a crime that poses a serious threat to life and property. A person is committing arson in Texas if they set a fire or cause an explosion with the intent to destroy or damage property or when they are reckless about the possibility that the fire or explosion will endanger another individual’s life or property. Educate children about arson and communicate that matches and lighters are tools, not toys. Report any suspicious activities to local law enforcement agencies or call the Texas A&M Forest Arson hotline: 1-800-364-3470.
https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/ArsonHotline/ - Wildfire Risk: Be wildfire aware! Be aware of any wildfire risk in the area by knowing forecasted weather, dry vegetation conditions, and outdoor burning restrictions. Don’t let a wildfire lose your chance of seeing the eclipse.
https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/DailyFireDanger/
https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/FireWeatherAndOutlooks/