Red Flag Warning Issued

The Southlake Fire Department wants to remind everyone that Southlake is included in the National Weather Services’ Red Flag Warning until 6:00 p.m. this evening.

This means the potential for grass fires is greater, especially with wind gusts likely up to 25 miles per hour. A Red Flag Warning is issued when a combination of strong winds, low relative humidity, and dry vegetation can contribute to dangerous fire conditions.

Several grass fires have broken out all over the Metroplex as of Monday afternoon (1/22/2018), and just last week, the Southlake Fire Department responded to a grass fire in the 400 block of Shady Oaks Drive. The fire was accidentally started by someone using power tools to cut a pipe fence. The fire damaged several wooden fences but no structures were damaged. Fire Marshal Kelly Clements says, “Conditions are ripe for a similar situation to occur so make sure you have a good water supply nearby like a water hose if you are using power tools or welding outside. We want to encourage everyone to be aware of their surroundings during this elevated fire danger situation.”

The Fire Marshal has a few other safety tips to help reduce the fire danger threat.

• No outdoor burning – Tarrant and Denton Counties are still under an outdoor burn ban
• Do not toss lit cigarette butts outside
• Avoid activities that cause sparks or flames
• Check trailer chains
• Don’t park cars on the grass – hot exhaust systems can ignite dry grass and start fires

If anyone sees a grass fire, you are asked to report it immediately to 9-1-1.  Your assistance will greatly assist in reducing the threat of a dangerous fire to homes and property.

If you have any additional questions, please contact the Southlake Fire Department at (817) 748-8106.