Fire Extinguishers Recommended During Burn Ban And Beyond

Authorities in Texas are recommending the purchase of fire extinguishers by property owners as a precaution in the event that a fire breaks out, the risk of which is heightened during the current drought being experienced.

Walker County is one of many Texan counties currently under a 90 day burn ban to try and minimise the fire risks. It has been in effect since January and has been put in place in view of weather reports and information from the Texas Forest Service. The ban may be extended if no significant rain occurs. 209 of the 254 counties within the state of Texas have implemented the ban due to the drought that is currently being suffered.

A burn ban limits outdoor burning which lessens the risk of brush and forest fires. Signs are placed on highways to indicate when the burn ban is in effect and can be adjusted depending on the level of drought currently being experienced. Certain types of outdoor burning are still permitted, for example - rubbish may be burned in an appropriate container which stops potentially deadly sparks flying around, also the use of barbecue pits and charcoal burners for cooking is allowed.

Any outdoor burning which has been allowed to go ahead has been strictly monitored and has required that a fire extinguisher be present at the site.
Fire extinguishers should be properly maintained and appropriate for the type of fire & users should ensure they are following instructions when attempting to extinguish a fire with one. Always call the fire service before trying to tackle a fire yourself & make sure you have a clear exit. If there is any danger that you could be affected by smoke you should get out.

Authorities are urging all property owners to ensure that they maintain a smoke detection system and purchase fire extinguishers as a precaution in case a large fire does break out. Many people in this area live in remote areas and may own large areas of land, which, says the Fire Chief, should be appropriately maintained to minimise risk, also ensuring that the area directly around a house is mowed to create a defensible space. This will slow down the progress of a fire should one break out nearby.

Residents should also ensure that mailboxes and street signs should be completely visible, and paths and driveways well maintained so that a fire truck can find the property and enter it if necessary.