Conroe, Tx June 25th, 2009
Montgomery County is currently experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions throughout the County. The current average Keetch Byram Drought Index (KBDI) reading is now 616 while some areas in the County are at levels as high as 647. These conditions lead to an increased risk of wildfires due to the lack of moisture in ground cover fuels such as brush, pine straw and grasses. In addition, current drought predictions reveal that Montgomery and Liberty Counties could reach extreme drought and fire danger levels within the next two weeks. A KBDI reading between 700 and 800 is associated with increased fire occurrence and those fires may be expected to grow rapidly in size and be difficult to control.
Explanation of KBDI Index – http://ticc.tamu.edu/KBDI%20Fact%20Sheet.pdf
As the average KBDI reading is above the 575 level, the restriction on skyrockets and missile fireworks will remain in effect as previously ordered by Commissioner’s Court. In addition, The Montgomery County Fire Marshal’s Office has initiated a Ban on Outdoor Burning in Montgomery County. Both of these restrictions took effect on Wednesday June 24th.
Montgomery County Firefighters continue to respond to an average of 4 or 5 wildfires per day, with the additional burden of responding to reports of illegal burning under the Burn Ban. We are asking that all Montgomery County residents refrain from burning or any other activity that could lead to wildfires.
Residents should take time now to assess their property for risk factors that could allow a fire to start or spread onto their property. The following information is from the Texas Forest Service and additional information can be found on their website.
http://txforestservice.tamu.edu/main/default.aspx
• Defensible space is your best defense against wildfires.
• Landscaping within 30 to 100 feet around your home can make the difference in whether or not your home remains intact after a wildfire.
• Defensible space does not have to be devoid of vegetation.
• Defensible space is space that uses vegetation – specifically selected, placed, and maintained – to reduce the fire hazard rather than invite wildfire to your home.
• Aesthetics can be maintained even as your home’s ability to survive a wildfire is increased.
The goal of these restrictions and precautions are to reduce the risks of property damage and injuries from wildfires. Fire Officials are stressing the importance of education and prevention first, however violation of the restrictions is a Class C Misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500.
The fireworks restrictions do not affect professional public fireworks displays, nor do they limit the sale or use of most ground based aerial fireworks. They are specifically aimed at skyrockets and missiles as those aerial fireworks are most difficult to control and more likely to land while still ignited.
For more information email mcfmo@mctx.org or go to our website for the latest updates.
http://www.co.montgomery.tx.us/fire/index.shtml
For more information on how to protect your home from wildfire – Texas Forest Service
http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/article.aspx?id=1612
http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/uploadedFiles/FRP/UWI/Firewise_Defensible_Space.pdf
