North Texas firefighters say fire safety over the next week could not be more important.
On Monday a red flag warning was issued for several counties to the north and west of the Metroplex.
Counties like Denton were put on guard for extremely dry conditions though, and leaders told the Denton Record Chronicle that the warning area could be expanded in the coming days.
That has local departments keeping an extra close eye out for fire threats.
Argyle Fire Marshal and Chief Deputy Michael Lugo said his team is especially watching areas around Interstate 35W and other highways where a cigarette butt, blown tire or spark from a loose chain could easily produce the heat necessary to start a grass fire.
They're also reminding residents of the now two-month-old burn ban that remains in effect for most of the Metroplex, and Lugo said it couldn’t be more important to observe right now.
"They have the smallest fire thinking they can control it and manage it, it gets way out of control quickly and they don't realize it," said Lugo.
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With the wind conditions high the next few days as well as the unseasonable heat, Lugo said the dry areas are in an enhanced threat.
He urges everyone to follow the burn ban, and if for any reason a fire does get started, Lugo said residents should call 911 immediately before it gets out of hand, no matter how small the fire or smoke may be.
