What else?
However, Chief Fire Marshal Gary Howell stated that while fire risks in the area have decreased, residents should remain vigilant in the coming weeks.
“While outdoor burning will be allowed in the unincorporated areas beginning Wednesday, Dec. 11, I urge the public to be extremely cautious. Travis County will monitor the conditions closely as we head toward the holidays and let the public know if the burn ban will be needed again,” Howell said in a statement.
The bottom line
As firework-popping holidays approach, county officials urge residents to stay informed about the hazards of consumer fireworks during elevated fire weather conditions.
Fireworks cause approximately 19,500 fires yearly, resulting in an estimated $105 million in direct property damage nationwide, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Bobby Abbott, Travis County Emergency Services District No. 6 fire chief, previously advised locals to take time to create a defensible space to better protect homes.
A defensible space is a buffer between a home and surrounding vegetation or debris, such as trees, brush or even missing roof shingles. This buffer helps improve a house’s chance of surviving a wildfire and gives firefighters a safe area to work in to defend the structure.
Here are some steps individuals can take to reduce the risk of fire around their home:
- Clean out gutters to remove leaves and debris
- Clear dried leaves and vegetation within 5 feet of home
- Trim tree branches so they are at least 10 feet away from the residence
- Keep flammable items away from house or store them in a garage or shed
