Tips for preventing brush, grass fires Published Jan. 23, 2018 By Staff Report 82nd Mission Support Group SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Recent reoccurring high winds, low humidity, and warmer temperatures have created dry conditions which have increased the likelihood of grass and brush fires. Although Wichita County has not issued a temporary ban on open outdoor burning, otherwise known as a burn ban, many surrounding counties have chosen to do so. Please note that the City of Wichita Falls prohibits all outdoor burning inside the city limits and a county ban will be enacted by the Wichita County Commissioners Court if deemed appropriate. To minimize fire dangers, please keep in mind the following precautions: Smoking on Sheppard Air Force Base is only permitted in designated areas. If you choose to smoke in a designated area, please ensure all cigarette butts are entirely extinguished and disposed of in proper cans. Check wichitafallstx.gov or co.wichita.tx.us for the latest information on local burn bans or restrictions before conducting any open burning. Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid to start an open fire. Do not leave a fire unattended. Have fire extinguishing materials on hand, including a water supply, shovels and rakes Be prepared to extinguish your fire if the winds pick up Do NOT delay a call for help! Call the fire department immediately at the first sign of a fire getting out of control. Open burning is never permitted on Sheppard AFB without a permit. If you have fire safety related questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Sheppard Fire Department at (940) 676-1073.