Taylor County Burn Ban Is Now in Effect: Know the Fire Risks

Taylor County Under Burn Ban: Know These Hidden Fire Risks to Keep Your Community Safe

Taylor County Judge & Commissioner Chuck Statler joined me on the radio to break some urgent news, Taylor County is now under a burn ban. After an emergency session, county officials voted to immediately enforce the ban due to the extreme winds and dangerously dry conditions we’ve been experiencing.

The Burn Ban Is In Effect for 90 days

With winds exceeding 70 mph and past wildfires leaving behind dried-out trees, grass, and debris, it only takes one small spark to ignite a disaster. Commissioner Statler emphasized the urgency of preventing fires before they start, and he shared key information to help residents stay safe.

Common Fire Starters You May Not Think About

During my conversation with Commissioner Statler and local fire officials, we discussed how some of the most dangerous fire starters are things people don’t even realize are a risk. Here are some surprising culprits:

1. Dragging Trailer Chains - If you're pulling a trailer and the safety chain is dragging on the pavement, it can create sparks that fly into dry grass along the roadside, starting fires without anyone noticing. Always secure your trailer chains properly to prevent this.
2. Power Lines & High Winds - Commissioner Statler pointed out that high winds can cause power lines to swing and, if they touch, they can spark a fire. Many wildfires start in remote areas where no one sees the flames until they’re already out of control. Report any downed or sparking power lines immediately to your electric company.
3. Electric Fences & Overgrown Weeds - Dry weeds or tall grass touching a hot electric fence can ignite instantly. Regularly clear vegetation away from electric fences and be aware of any sparks.
4. Welding, Grinding, & Cutting Metal - Working on a fence, trailer, or metal structure? Welding sparks, grinding metal, and cutting torches can throw off embers that ignite grass fires within seconds. Always work in a fire-safe area and keep a water source or extinguisher nearby.
5. Outdoor Cooking & BBQ Grills - It doesn’t matter if it’s charcoal, pellets, firewood, or even gas, grilling in these dry conditions can quickly turn into a wildfire risk. If you must cook outside, do so safely with a water source nearby and no dry vegetation around.
6. Driving in Tall Grass - Many people don’t realize that their car’s exhaust system, catalytic converter, or even overheated brakes can ignite dry vegetation. Avoid parking or driving in tall, dry grass whenever possible.
7. Tire Blowouts - When a tire blows out, the hot rubber and steel belts can land in dry grass, sparking a fire. If you experience a blowout, pull over safely and check the roadside for any smoldering embers.
8. Discarded Cigarette Butts - Tossing a cigarette out of a car window can lead to slow-burning embers that ignite dry grass minutes later. Always properly dispose of cigarette butts in a container, not on the road.
   Source: Commissioner Chuck Statler / Fire Chief Gary Young

Let’s Look Out for Each Other

One thing Commissioner Statler and I both emphasized during our conversation is the importance of neighbors helping neighbors. If we all stay aware and look out for signs of smoke, we can stop a fire before it spreads.

If you see smoke, report it immediately to your local fire department or volunteer fire department. Check on your neighbors, especially elderly residents, to make sure they know about the burn ban and fire risks. Be extra cautious with any outdoor activities that involve heat, sparks, or flames.

Support Our Local Firefighters

Our Volunteer Fire Departments are on the front lines protecting our homes, land, and lives. If you’d like to donate or volunteer to help them, CLICK HERE to find out how you can contribute.

Final Reminder: No Burning Allowed

1. The Taylor County burn ban is in effect through June 2, 2025.
2. No outdoor burning of any kind is permitted.
3. Let’s all do our part to prevent another wildfire catastrophe.

A huge THANK YOU to our local fire departments, first responders, and volunteers who put their lives on the line to protect our communities. Stay safe, stay alert, and let’s keep Texas from going up in flames.