Just five years after the grass fires of 2011, the Midland Fire Department is reminding the public to be aware of a Fire Weather Watch for the area this weekend.
Texas families suffered tragic losses in 2011 due to fires, with millions of acres burned thousands of homes and destroyed structures across the state.
US National Weather Service Midland Texas has issued a Fire Weather Watch that includes the Midland area on Saturday. This means conditions are present that could cause rapidly spreading wildfires to develop.
The Midland Fire Department urges residents, companies and oil and gas field operators to prevent wildfires from igniting by observing established safety measures:
• Never toss cigarettes from vehicles! Dispose of smoking materials properly.
• Hot work such as cutting and welding of metals should be closely monitored. Workers should have fire extinguishing equipment available to quickly control small fires that result from that activity.
• Transportation equipment should be checked for loose chains or other faulty equipment and conditions which could cause sparks while driving on roadways.
• Observe local burn ban rules. Even recreational fires can result in disastrous consequences.
• Monitor children for fire play.
• Never hesitate to call 911 if a fire starts!
Have an escape plan and route so that you are prepared in case a fast moving fire is in your area. Monitor or follow local TV stations and the U.S. National Weather Service of Midland on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date on the latest weather conditions.
###Media Contact: Fire Marshal David Hickman