Experts share crucial insights as wildfires pose increasing threat
JACKSON, Tenn. — With wildfires continuing in Texas, we wanted to speak with experts to gain more information regarding these types of tragedies.
The blaze continues in Texas as we head into the weekend. Reports show that with dry conditions, and winds expected in that area over the next few days, the risk is still high. We spoke with Fire Marshal Latrell Billingsley, with the Jackson Fire Department, about what exactly is going on, and to learn more about these disasters.
“Our hearts go out to those individuals in Texas who are suffering from those wildfires. We have a lot of acreage being burned. A substantial increase of acreage being burned from years past to now. So we want to make sure everybody understands that this is a problem that we are dealing with,” said Billingsley.
Of course, dry conditions, wind, and heat can enhance wildfires, however Billingsley gives us more information on how they can start.
“90% of wildfires are started by people. Now that goes to say, most people are aware of wildfires that are started by lightning strikes, but for the most part 90% of them are started by people,” said Billingsley.
Simple things can cause wildfires, embers flying away from a small campfire, cigarettes tossed on the ground, and sparks from the roadway are just a few examples. Billingsley tells us what to do if we experience one of these wildfires.
“If you are caught in a wildfire type of situation or area you want to get out as quickly as possible. We don’t recommend that you try and put that fire out. Because most of the time it will be in remote areas. Most times it will be, but sometimes it will be close to a home,” said Billingsley.
If you have questions, concerns, or information to provide, please call your local fire department.
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