Rain Relief to Houston Area: Texas Wildfire Concerns and Burn Bans
It is raining in the Houston area; a full on downpour complete with thunder and lightning. For many this isn't news or even cause for celebration but in the Houston area and much of Texas the rain is big news and exactly what is needed not only for our crops, lawns, gardens, and flowers, but also to help with the danger of wildfires.
On June 21, 2011 around 3:30 p.m., West Houston/Katy residents were informed of a wildfire burning in in the Katy area. Three fire departments battled the grass fire and used bull dozers in an attempt to protect the surrounding neighborhoods. Investigators are still uncertain of the cause of the wildfire that took over three hours to put out. This wildfire was just a minutes away from my home in a field I drive by daily. No evacuations were needed the fire was close to many neighborhoods, churches and one building was in danger. (See the video of the burning and firefighters here)
While frightening, and a little too close to home, this wildfire has nothing on the Grimes County wildfire (Dyer Mill Fire) that has been raging for three days in Grimes County just outside of College Station, Texas. Five thousand acres have burned and over 2000 people have been evacuated. At least 30 homes have been destroyed. Hopes continue for rain in that area to assist with getting it under control and doused. With approximately 80 units on site fire departments hope to control it soon, and Houston area Montgomery County is watching it closely as it approaches there densely wooded and grassy areas and state parks. FEMA assistance has been requested, but has not yet been provided.
Just this month the Harris County Fire Marshal declared a burn ban in the unincorporated areas of Harris County. To the public this means no fireworks (and July 4th is approaching), taking precautions to protect your family and property including no outdoor burning. Backyard barbeques are permitted and extra care is requested. The Fire Marshal provides these 10 tips to protect your home in their press release of June 2 2011.
1. Do not burn on "Red Flag" or windy days and think twice before burning outdoors when KBDI approaches 700 or more.
2. LPG tanks should be far enough away from buildings for valves to be shut off in case of fire. Keep area around the tank clear of flammable vegetation.
3. Store gasoline in an approved safety can away from occupied buildings.
4. All combustibles such as firewood, wooden picnic tables, boats and stacked lumber should be kept away from structures.
5. Clear roof surfaces and gutters regularly to avoid build-up of flammable materials such as leaves and other debris.
6. Remove branches from trees to a height of 15 feet or more.
7. In rural areas, clear a fuel break of at least three times the fuel length around all structures.
8. Have fire tools handy such as: ladder long enough to reach your roof, shovel, rake and a bucket or two for water.
9. Place connected garden hoses at all sides of your home for emergency use.
10. Assure that you and your family know all emergency exits from your home.
11. Assure that you and your family know all emergency exits from your neighborhood
The burn ban has been issued throughout the area including Austin, Brazoria, Colorado, and Fort Bend.
So today when it rains instead of saying "rain rain go away" many Houston area residents are breathing a sigh of relief and hope for more rain clouds on the horizon for our East Texas "neighbors."
Sources
Personal experience
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