High Temps Increasing Risks of Wildfires
Dallas County is currently under an active countywide burn ban through September 25, 2026, prohibiting all outdoor burning. High temperatures and dry vegetation create conditions that make the igniting and spreading of a fire easier. According to the Texas Forest Service website, negligent equipment use and careless debris burning account for 50% of wildfires in Texas.
The City urges all residents to take simple preventive steps to reduce wildfire risks and remain aware of hazards during outdoor activities.
Outdoor Burning
Please do not burn trash, brush, leaves, or any other outdoor debris during the ban. A large share of human‑caused wildfires result from debris burning.
Grilling Safety
Although enclosed cooking appliances are typically allowed; grills, charcoal, or propane, can be a fire hazard if not used correctly. Follow the tips below before grilling outdoors.
- Check weather conditions and avoid grilling with wood or charcoal on hot, dry, and windy days.
- Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors away from structures.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Place your grill in an open space, away from tall grass, shrubs, woodpiles, or other flammable materials. Also avoid placing your grill underneath a tree or on a wooden patio deck.
- Never leave your grill unattended. Wind gusts may blow embers into dry vegetation and ignite a wildfire.
- Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill area.
- Ensure your grill is kept clean of excess grease to prevent flare-ups.
- After you finish grilling, allow coal to cool completely before disposing.
- Never travel with a lit or smoldering pit in the back of a truck or trailer. Embers or coals can fall out while driving, land in roadside vegetation and ignite it.
- Keep a multipurpose ABC rated or BC rated dry chemical fire extinguisher handy when grilling.
Equipment Safety
The improper use of certain equipment increases the risk of igniting a fire. To reduce fire risks, use caution when using equipment that could potentially overheat or spark and ignite wildfire. Below are steps to consider when operating equipment.
Towing
- Secure tow chains and ramps so that they do not bounce on pavement and create sparks.
Mowing/Edging/Welding/Grinding
- Limit mowing, edging, welding, and grinding activities to before 10 a.m. whenever possible.
- Avoid as much as possible tasks that will create sparks that can land in dry vegetation.
- Mow a 10–15 foot radius around work areas prior to high-risk activities in vegetation.
- Pre-wet the immediate work areas.
- Ensure all gas-powered tools have functional spark arrestors.
- Avoid refueling equipment near hot exhaust components, as spilled fuel could ignite and cause a fire.
General Vehicle Safety
- Avoid stopping vehicles in tall, dry vegetation.
General Maintenance
- Inspect electrical wiring: Look for fraying, loose connections, or signs of overheating to prevent electrical sparks.
- Manage hot surfaces: Ensure engine cooling systems operate correctly and keep exhaust systems clean of debris.
Emergency Procedures
- Pull over immediately: If you notice smoke, unusual burning smells, or flames while operating a vehicle, pull off the road safely.
- Shut down and evacuate: Turn off the engine, get all passengers out, and move at least 100 feet away from the vehicle.
- Do not open the hood: If smoke or fire is present under the hood, leave it closed; opening it feeds oxygen to the fire.
For additional wildfire prevention tips visit Prevent Wildfires.