When many people think of wildfire season, they picture hot summer days and dry August afternoons. In North Texas, however, winter is often one of the most dangerous times of year for fires. Cold fronts, low humidity, dormant vegetation, and strong winds combine to create conditions where fires can start easily and spread rapidly.
During the winter months, grass and brush across our region dry out and become highly combustible. While temperatures may be cooler, the lack of rainfall and frequent high wind mean fires can ignite from even small sources such as burn piles, discarded cigarettes, or sparks from equipment. Once started, these fires can move quickly, threatening homes, property, and lives.
Our area is currently experiencing very dry conditions, and while we may not technically be under a burn ban, that does not mean burning is safe. Burn bans are only one tool used by local and county officials. Fire danger exists well before a burn ban is put in place, and many serious fires occur during periods when no official ban is active.
Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid outdoor burning, including burn piles, trash fires, and debris burning, during dry and windy conditions. What may seem like a manageable fire can quickly get out of control, especially when wind shifts or gusts increase unexpectedly.
It is also important for the public to understand that Texas State Law places restrictions on outdoor burning regardless of local burn bans. Under state regulations, outdoor burning is prohibited when wind speeds or gusts reach 23 miles per hour or greater. These conditions significantly increase the risk of rapid fire spread, placing both the public and first responders in danger. Violating these regulations can result in enforcement action and fines.
Beyond burning, residents can take simple steps to reduce fire risk during the winter fire season like securing trailer chains to prevent sparks along roadways, avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, properly dispose of smoking materials, and use caution with outdoor equipment that may generate heat or sparks.
Firefighters and EMS personnel remain ready to respond when emergencies occur, but prevention is always the safest and most effective tool. Every fire that is avoided reduces risk to responders and helps keep our community safe.
As we move through the winter months, we ask everyone to stay informed, monitor weather conditions closely, and make smart decisions. Any outdoor burning must be called in to our dispatch center at 903-564-3585. The dispatcher will be able to update you on burn bans or no burn days that might be in place.
Just because it is winter and just because there is no burn ban does not mean the fire danger is low. A moment of caution today can prevent a devastating fire tomorrow.
Jeff Patterson is the Director of Public Safety for the City of Whitesboro. He can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 903-564-7533.