No timetable set for length of Denton County burn ban

After issuing a countywide burn ban July 25, officials with the Denton County Fire Marshal's office said the risk of grass fires is "high" and proper precautions should be taken.

The county burn ban prohibits all outdoor burning, while limiting outdoor cooking and open and enclosed "hotwork"—such as welding—anywhere in Denton County, per the the county office. The only outdoor cooking devices allowed during the burn ban are propane or natural gas cookers with enclosures, according to the executive order.

Temperatures are expected to exceed 100 degrees in Denton County in the upcoming days with no rain in the forecast, according to the county.

“We continuously monitor the conditions across Denton County and issue burn bans when we believe the potential for a major grass fire exists,” Denton County Fire Marshal Brad Sebastian said. "It is Denton County’s responsibility to ensure the safety of all residents."

A total of 141 counties have burn bans in place, including Tarrant County. As of July 28, no burn ban has been issued for Dallas County.

Tips to prevent grass fires

Several counties across the state have released suggestions on how to prevent wild fires, including:

• Do not burn trash, leaves or brush outdoors.
• Rake leaves, cut off dead limbs and twigs, and mow grass regularly.
• Don't park cars, trucks or recreational vehicles on dry grass.
• Clean gutters of dead leaves.
• Keep a garden hose or water bucket nearby in case of emergency.