Big Country fire danger heats up with summertime; 8 counties under burn bans

ABILENE, Texas ( BCH Weather ) – As summer approaches, temperatures continue to rise across the Big Country and beyond. With these rising temperatures comes the risk of wildfires. Here’s what you need to know about local fire safety when considering burning during these drier than normal conditions.

Local authorities of each county here in the Big Country often implement fire burning bans during times of extreme fire danger. These bans typically, but not always, restrict the use of open flames like campfires, fireworks, and outdoor grilling. The leading goal of these bans is to minimize all human-caused wildfires.

According to the National Park Service , nearly 85% of wildfires are caused by humans.

Key factors that help prompt burn bans include:

• Weather
  • Hot, dry, and especially windy conditions increase fire risk.
• Vegetation
  • Dry grass and brush can easily catch fire.
• Current Fire Activity
  • Ongoing wildfires can lead to multiple county-wide burn bans.

While these bans are another way to help reduce wildfires, here are some more fire safety tips.

1. Follow Local Fire Bans
   • Always check for and comply with your local county’s issuance of fire bans.
2. Be Responsible While Building Fires
   • Use designated fire rings and keep fires small. Never leave any fire unattended.
3. Extinguish Fires Completely
   • Use water to smother flames and stir ashes around until cool.
4. Dispose of Cigarettes Properly
   • Use ashtrays and never discard butts on the ground.

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service burn ban map , the following Big Country counties are under active burn bans: Coke, Fisher, Knox, Mitchell, Nolan, Shackelford, Stonewall, and Throckmorton.

Stay informed through local news and community alerts on current fire conditions and when these burn bans are put into effect. While local fire departments and other community organizations work closely to educate residents of the Big Country and other parts of Texas, it is ultimately up to you and your actions to help reduce the spread of these summer wildfires.

You can also stay informed on all the latest with the BCH2Go app on your phone for Apple or Android . You can sign up to get push alerts and important notifications on severe weather events and local news.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.