As Drought Intensifies, Officials Urge Caution

Thursday at 1:45 pm the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a grass fire on St. Hwy 159 near Columbus Hall Ln. in the Fayetteville area. The Fayetteville Fire Dept. was notified and upon arrival found several acres on fire and a small structure threatened. Mutual Aid was requested from Ellinger and Round Top - Warrenton Fire departments who also responded along with Fayette County EMS Unit Medic 2 and Deputy Joe Gonzales. Fence builders working nearby also came with a tractor pulling a water tank assisting by keeping the fire from structures spreading in a neighbor’s pasture prior to the Fire Departments arrival. It is believed the fire started from a small pile of leaves the landowner burnt earlier in the morning.

The Fayette County Office of Emergency Management, the Fayette County Firefighters Association, and Fire Chiefs across the county urge all residents and visitors to use the upmost caution to avoid setting fires. Fireworks, sparks from mowing equipment, and any open flame can start a fire easily during a drought. Aerial fireworks such as “roman candles”, “bottle rockets”, “artillery shells”, “missiles” or any other firework that can travel in the air can pose an even greater danger. Loss of property and loss of life are possible without due caution.

Fayette County Firefighters Association President Stephen Kelly encourages residents and visitors to be cautious when celebrating. “Fourth of July, picnics, and family gatherings are special to our county. Please watch your sparks and flames closely to keep everyone safe. Our fire departments have seen an increasing number of fires and the extreme temperatures can take a toll on firefighters. We would appreciate it if citizens would keep a water hose or extinguisher nearby at all times and avoid airborne fireworks” said President Kelly.

Fayette County Emergency Management Chief Craig Moreau notes the level of drought has risen to levels we have not seen in several years. “The drought index now sits at

644 out of a maximum 800, and it is still rising. A 300 on the chart is significant, we are now over twice that level. Any reading over 600 can produce deep burning fires with significant downwind spread” said Moreau. “Watch your BBQ pits, avoid high-risk fireworks, make sure your chains are secured when towing, and encourage your family and neighbors to be make good decisions.”

Sign up for emergency warnings at www.warncentraltexas.com.

Assistance is available for residents needing heat relief. Contact the Fayette County Office of Emergency Management for any questions.