The Dangers Of Wildfires In Central Texas - 12 News KBMT and K-JAC. News, Weather and Sports for SE Texas

It's hard to imagine that all those acres in Moody burned because of a campfire. But we are heading into that time of year when the humidity, dry land, and winds make for perfect fire conditions. KCEN HD News shows you how to prevent a wildfire from happening. 

Belinda Barker and her husband are worried about their son's property. "He e-mailed me last night and said Iron Bridge Two, which is this property right here was on fire. And yes, I was very nervous," she said.   

So far, only about half an acre went up in flames. It's all because of a campfire that wasn't properly put out a couple days ago.

"There's many causes, but most of  the causes of wildfires are human caused," said Patrick Allen, of the Texas A&M Forest Service.

"So if you do happen to make a fire here's what to do to make sure that it's completely out. Smother it with sand and drench it with water. Then use the back of your hand to feel if it's still hot. If it's not cold, it's not out yet.

"Be sure to monitor it until it's out cold," said Allen

If it's not out, the fire could re-ignite.

"The winds can pick up the ashes and send that into some high grass even though there's no fire then the ashes actually start the fire due to the high winds," said the Bell County Fire Marshal, Steve Casey.

Because of the drought, dead grass is everywhere in Central Texas. All it takes is wind and humidity to start a spark.

"The best way to prevent that is to be aware of your surroundings and what you're doing," said Levita Fire Fighter, Clark Denbow.

Most importantly, don't start a fire if there's a burn ban. Right now there are no burn bans in the surrounding counties. But the recent winds and dry land make it unsafe.

"It's getting pretty scary. I wish they would do a control burn on days like today when there's no wind and fix that," said Barker.

But the Texas Forestry Service says the rough terrain and houses nearby would make it hard for a safe controlled burn.

In Bell County, there is a Burn Line to call for information on burn bans, weather conditions, or even to let the county know where you plan to make a controlled burn. You can call the line at (254) 933-5555.