Brazoria County releases brush fire warning

As a result of little rainfall during the summer, the Brazoria County Commissioner's Court is contemplating a burn ban for the county to prevent brush fires.   According to the Texas Department of Emergency Management, 90 percent of all Texas wildfires are caused by human activity. As of Aug. 14, the county Keetch-Byram Drought Index is 572.   "It is predicated to see a possible KBDI number of 683 within the next two weeks if we do not see any significant rainfall," said Glenn LaMont, Brazoria County deputy emergency management coordinator, in a press release. "This KBDI number is considered dangerously high and sets the stage for potentially severe fires."   In an effort to prevent brush or wild land fires in the county, the Emergency Management Office has developed a list of tips for residents.    First, household trash that is burned should only be burned in a steel barrel with a mesh covering to prevent sparks from escaping. Residents also should never leave barbecue pits and grills unattended, with a water hose nearby in case hot coals or sparks ignite the area around the pit.   While driving, residents should be careful when pulling off of a road or driving in a field. Hot catalytic converters can ignite vegetation. Also while driving, those who smoke in their car should extinguish cigarettes in vehicle ashtrays. Never toss a lit cigarette out of a car window and don't put cigarettes out on the ground.   Residents are also asked to report any smoke or small fires they may see by calling the Emergency Management Office at 979-864-1801.   For more information about preventing brush fires and updates on potential burn bans, visit www.brazoria-county.com/em.