Brazoria County continues to experience record high temperatures and worsening drought conditions. A burn ban was issued for the unincorporated areas of the county on June 23rd due to the hot, dry conditions. According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, 226 counties in Texas have active burn bans in effect. BCESD No. 3 is encouraging our community to remain aware of the ongoing fire risk and potential for extreme fire growth.

Persistent and intensifying drought conditions in June and mid-July have produced dangerous fire behavior conditions across the state of Texas. Drought can be a contributing factor to wildfire. Dry, hot, and windy weather combined with dried and more flammable vegetation can increase the probability of large-scale wildfires. The potential for routine outside fires to grow into significant life-threatening fires is a growing concern for firefighters. 

As a homeowner, you are not powerless in your defense against wildfires. By taking a proactive approach to wildfire prevention, you can significantly increase your safety and your home’s likelihood of survival during a catastrophic wildfire event. Plan, prepare and practice before a wildfire occurs. Download a wildfire safety checklist provided by FEMA/ US Fire Administration below.

The Brazoria County Fire Marshal’s Office has warned the public that hot and dry conditions can set the stage for potential severe fires. The burn ban prohibits outdoor burning. Violations of the burn ban order include burning any combustible material outside of an enclosure, serving to contain all flames and/or sparks, or ordering such burning by others. Contained BBQ pits and grills are permitted, but open flame pits are not allowed. Any violation of this Order is a Class C Misdemeanor, punishable by a fine.

To report an outside fire, call 9-1-1. 

Please refer to the Brazoria County website for updates concerning the burn ban at http://www.brazoriacountytx.gov