The deepening drought of 2008, scorching temperatures, low humidity and brisk winds mean high fire danger for San Marcos and much of Texas this summer.
Chief Mike Baker of San Marcos Fire Rescue has issued a reminder for residents to be aware of the fire risks and the rules to prevent wildfires in the San Marcos area.
Some rules to remember in San Marcos:
“Earlier this year, it just took one spark from fireworks to start a fire that destroyed 800 acres just outside San Marcos,” said Chief Baker. “Such fires are difficult to contain and put out.”
San Marcos has had a total of only 8.29 inches of rain so far in 2008-or 6.22 inches below the historic average. The National Weather Service has listed several western states and part of Texas in its “Red Flag Warning” zone for high fire risk, with increasingly serious conditions anticipated for Central Texas.
The Hays County Commissioners on June 3 issued a burn ban prohibiting outdoor burning and banning sticks and fin fireworks in Hays County.
The outskirts of the city pose some of the greatest areas of fire danger, where wildland and urban settings meet, Baker noted. “This is where grassfires can impact neighborhoods and cause considerable destruction,” he said.
More information about summer fire safety tips is available online:
For more information, call San Marcos Fire Rescue at 393-8460. Residents may also schedule a free in-home Fire and Life Safety inspection by calling San Marcos Fire Rescue during normal business hours.
By MELISSA MILLECAM
Communications Director – City of San Marcos