High winds and dry conditions are a dangerous combination when it comes to wildfires, which is why North Texas crews are keeping an eye on the weather this week.
“Tinder box laying along our driveway,” said Melissa Ingram, a resident of North Richland Hills.
For the last 15 years, Ingram and her family have lived a few yards away from Cross Timbers Park.
While pristine, the 100 acres of grass and preserved lands can easily catch fire under the right conditions. Such was the case eight years ago when flames came dangerously close to Ingram’s home.
“I opened the garage door that day and all the smoke billowed in,” Ingram explained. “It got within 20 feet of the driveway.”
Today, she and the city are more cautious about letting too much take root in the area.
The city of North Richland Hills has constructed a fire line between the park and surrounding neighborhoods. During warmer months, they regularly clear out any brush that develops along the edges.
“We have a fire management system in place. We’re going to be coming in now just to help clean up and set that fire break,” said William Thornton, assistant director of the city’s Parks and Recreation Department.
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Those precautions are timely, given the increased fire danger in other parts of the state.
Homeowners are advised to mow the lawn at least 30 feet out from their front door, according to Tarrant County Fire Marshal Randy Renois.
“Just to be alert,” he explained.
While windy conditions are expected in North Texas throughout the week, Renois said they did not have any crews on high alert for fires. Rather, they’re just prepared for anything.
“Just need to be cautious and be aware of what's going on with the weather,” he said. “Be ready.”
