During periods of strong winds, high temperatures and low humidity, fire danger increases significantly. Oncor’s 24-7 weather monitoring includes staying alert and prepared for high wind and fire risk conditions just as we do for possible thunderstorms and extreme temperatures. Unlike tornados and snow, however, there are steps Texans can take to help prevent wildfires.

Oncor encourages customers to keep the following tips in mind to prevent starting and spreading fires:

• Stay Alert to Local Warnings: Closely monitor local weather forecasts and warnings such as Red Flag Warnings.
  
  
• See Something, Say Something: If you see smoke or an unattended fire, report it immediately by calling 9-1-1.
  
  
• Avoid Outdoor Burning: Debris burning is the number one cause of wildfires in Texas. Always check for and follow local burn bans and avoid burning on hot, dry or windy days.
  
  
• Keep Vehicles off Dry Grass: Park on paved or gravel surfaces and avoid idling over dry vegetation.
  
  
• Properly Dispose of Cigarettes: Always extinguish cigarettes completely and dispose of them in a sturdy, fireproof container.
  
  
• ­Vehicle Towing Safety: Dragging chains can cause sparks and lead to wildfires. If you’re towing a trailer, please remember to do a maintenance check to ensure the tires are not worn, the bearings and axles are greased and safety chains are properly in place and not dragging on the ground.
  
  
• Secure Outdoor Cooking: If grilling or using a fire pit, do so in a clear area away from dry vegetation, and fully extinguish flames when done.

• ­Create Fire Resistant Landscaping: Clean roofs and gutters of dead leaves, debris and pine needles that could catch embers. Move any flammable material away from wall exteriors, such as mulch, flammable plants, leaves and needles, firewood piles, to create a separation between fuels a fire needs to continue burning.

During Red Flag Warnings, which are used to identify areas with critical fire weather conditions, Oncor will disable certain automatic devices as part of our wildfire mitigation procedures. When operating, these devices automatically attempt to restore power after detecting an issue on a power line, such as contact from a falling branch or other windborne debris. When disabled, power cannot be restored until Oncor employees patrol the area to ensure conditions are safe for restoration. This may result in longer outage times for customers in counties currently under a Red Flag Warning. We recognize the inconvenience these longer outages may have on our customers and appreciate their patience as we continue to prioritize the safety of our communities and employees.  

Oncor field employees regularly follow fire-safe practices, and these efforts are especially emphasized during period of heightened fire risk. Practices include reviewing wildfire alerts and prevention and response practices during daily team briefings, following strict vehicle and equipment safety requirements, ensuring proper waste disposal and more. 

Strong winds can also create hazardous driving conditions. Blowing dust and debris can significantly reduce visibility, making it difficult to see other vehicles, road signs and potential hazards. Restoration may also be delayed by these hazardous conditions and low visibility. 

Just as Oncor employees practice safe driving, including pulling over and stopping vehicles when visibility is impaired, customers are encouraged to do the same.

By staying vigilant and taking simple precautions, we can all help prevent fires and keep our communities safe. By staying vigilant and taking simple precautions, we can all help prevent fires and keep our communities safe. For more tips from the Texas A&M Forest Service on protecting your home, community, ranch and wildlands, click here.

Customers can receive updates by registering for MyOncor text alerts by texting “REG” to 66267, downloading the MyOncor App, following Oncor on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), or by calling 888-313-4747.