#PrepareTravisCounty | #StopTheSpark
Welcome to Wildfire Awareness Month
Wildfires are a natural part of Texas life, but when it’s at the wrong place at the wrong time, it can threaten our lives, homes, and neighborhoods.
Together, we can reduce the risk of dangerous wildfires.
Join Travis County this May for Wildfire Awareness Month as we share simple steps you can take to protect your home, family, and community.
This year, our theme is “Stop the Spark Before It Starts.” It only takes one spark to start a wildfire — but your awareness, action, and preparation can help stop it.
Throughout May, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X(Twitter), and Nextdoor for weekly tips, videos, and easy-to-do actions!
How You Can Stop the Spark
Travis County Wildfire Mitigation Officer Glen Gillman shares “Glen’s Rules of 5” – how five seconds, five minutes, five mornings, five days of supplies, and five home essentials can help save your life in an emergency.
- 5 SECONDS: In an emergency, you must act quickly. You may only have five seconds to recognize a hazard and start responding. Stay alert to your environment!
- 5 MINUTES: Once you’ve taken five seconds to identify a hazard, you’ll have five minutes to get yourself and your loved ones to safety. That’s why having a plan is critical. Evacuate early, stay calm, and move quickly.
- 5 MORNINGS: Use five mornings a year to plan — for example, on Tax Day, back up important documents and on Halloween, rotate and restock your home emergency kit and “GO” bag.
- 5 DAYS OF SUPPLIES: Always keep at least five days of water, food, and medication ready in case you need to shelter in place.
- 5 HOME ESSENTIALS: Protecting your home from wildfire starts with fire-hardened maintenance and easy, affordable upgrades — like sealing vents and clearing flammable debris.
Know the Terms: Understanding Wildfire Warnings
When wildfire conditions arise, you may hear fire officials and meteorologists use certain terms. Here's what they mean:
- BURN BAN: No outdoor burning is allowed.
- RED FLAG WARNING: Weather conditions (like high winds and low humidity) are ideal for wildfires. Avoid outdoor burning or anything that could spark a fire.
- HOME HARDENING: Strengthening your home to prevent fire damage — like using fire-resistant materials and clearing vegetation.
- PRESCRIBED BURN: A fire set by experts to reduce wildfire risk long-term.
Did You Know?
A single flying ember during high winds can ignite your roof, deck, or yard within seconds!
DIY Risk Reduction: Easy Ways to Harden Your Home
Protecting your home doesn’t have to be complicated. Every small action reduces your risk!
- CLEAR GUTTERS AND ROOFS: Remove dry leaves, sticks, and debris from around your home.
- MOVE GRILLS AWAY FROM YOUR HOUSE: Place grills at least 10 feet away from buildings or decks.
- TRIM PLANTS AND SHRUBS: Especially near windows, decks, and siding.
- STORE GAS AND TOOLS SAFELY: Keep lawnmowers, gas cans, and firewood away from your home.
- INSTALL EMBER-RESISTANT VENT COVERS: Help block dangerous embers from entering your attic or walls.
Travis County is Here to Help
At Travis County, we believe knowledge is power. Join us this May to spread the word: Stop the Spark Before It Starts.
- Sign up for emergency alerts: Warn Central Texas
- Get the latest weather updates: National Weather Service
- Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS): Wildfire Guidance for Home.
- Ready.gov offers vital safety tips on what to do before, during, and after a wildfire.
- Follow Travis County and Travis County Emergency Services on social media:
- Travis County Facebook
- Travis CountyX (Twitter)
- Travis County Instagram
- Travis County Emergency Services Facebook
- Travis County Emergency Services X (Twitter)
- Travis County Emergency Services Instagram
