Southeast Texas and the surrounding area is currently experiencing an extended period of hot and dry weather. A prolonged period of accelerated drying will expand the area of dry to extremely dry vegetation across the landscape and have the potential to support wildfire activity. Texas A&M Forest Service continues to monitor the situation closely and has positioned personnel and equipment across the areas of concern for a quick and effective response to any new wildfire ignitions.

"The Independence Day holiday is a time to celebrate with family and friends. Like other summer holidays, when the warm weather hits, there’s nothing better than the smell of food on the grill. Along with grilling, many celebrations will also include, camping, travelling, and fireworks. We want to encourage Texans to stay safe during the July 4th holiday and hot summer months ahead."

As you celebrate with your family and friends, be sure to check for local burn bans and fire restrictions in your area.

If you are barbequing, enjoying fireworks, or roasting marshmallows near a campfire, keep a water source near you at all times (hose, bucket, or wet rags).

As you celebrate this 4th of July, enjoy the great outdoors while remembering safety first. Do your part, don’t let a wildfire start.

Firework Safety:

Read the labels on fireworks and use only as directed. Children should not be allowed to play with or ignite fireworks.

Fireworks should only be used outdoors on a flat, smooth surface in an area away from dry grass, buildings, and flammable materials. Never relight or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. Allow fireworks to cool completely before handling, then discard.

Grilling Tips:

Never leave your grill unattended. Wind gusts may blow embers into dry vegetation, potentially starting a wildfire.

Ensure your grill is kept clean of excess grease to prevent flare-ups.

Place your grill in an open space away from tall or dry grass, shrubs, woodpiles or other flammable materials. Also avoid placing your grill underneath a tree or on a wooden patio deck.

After you are finished grilling, allow time for the coals in your grill to completely cool. Smoldering coals may reignite and release embers, which may be blown into nearby vegetation.