Texas is currently experiencing widespread high to extreme forecast wildfire danger. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, this week, over 6 weeks of record heat and limited precipitation will combine with sustained wind speeds over fifteen miles per hour. A combination of high temperatures, dry vegetation and windy conditions increases the potential for significant wildfires resistant to control. Roadside starts are a major cause of wildfires this summer—which include exhaust sparks, friction due to dragging chains, severely worn brake pads and under inflated tires—along with debris burning and equipment use.

(Image courtesy of Texas A&M Forest Service)

Areas at highest risk include the I-35 corridor between Dallas, Waco, Austin and San Antonio, and extending west to Abilene and Wichita Falls. Lockhart, along with the rest of Caldwell County, is currently under a burn ban amid drought conditions and high wildfire risk.

Here are some safety tips from the Lockhart Fire Department, accompanied by images from the Texas Forest Service:

• DO NOT TRY TO BURN BRUSH OR TRASH DURING A BURN BAN, or engage in any activity which may initiate a spark, such welding, pasture mowing, recreational fires, etc.

• If you live in the City of Lockhart you are required to have a burn permit from the fire department to burn brush or limbs.  WE DO NOT ALLOW ANY BURNING DURING A BURN BAN AND DURING ELEVATED FIRE RISK CONDITIONS. Our burn permit application and requirements are on the city website or you can call fire administration at 512-398-2321 for information.

• Maintain a defendable space around your home.  Keep the grass mowed, remove leaves, do not store flammable products or wood next to your home.