City of Austin Mayor Kirk Watson and Travis County Judge Andy Brown held a press conference Tuesday afternoon along with leadership from multiple public safety departments to discuss the continued excessive heat and the critical wildfire risk for the area.
During the press conference, all leaders shared operational readiness updates and steps the public can take to play their part in preventing wildfire. Mayor Watson and Judge Brown also indicated they have each issued a disaster declaration for their respective jurisdictions for wildfire.
"A disaster declaration helps us to be further prepared in the event of a wildfire and the damage that results from it, the declaration allows us to move quickly and access the necessary resources to help us recover," said Austin Mayor Kirk Watson. "But the most important thing we can do today is to prepare and do everything we can to prevent a wildfire from happening in the first place."
Austin ranks sixth in the nation for number of homes at risk of wildfire. These disasters can happen anywhere, and local officials want to ensure the community is as prepared as possible to face the threats presented by wildfire and extreme heat.
Recent hot, dry weather has placed Austin at critical risk of wildfire. This stretch of more than 30 consecutive days of 100-degree heat without any measurable rain exacerbates the wildfire risk.
Austin Fire Department Chief Joel Baker emphasized that 90% of wildfires are caused by humans, and the public plays a huge part in not only preventing wildfire but also keeping themselves safe by being prepared.
“It’s extremely important right now to avoid things that can cause a spark. The grass, brush, and other vegetation are incredibly dry right now,” Chief Baker said. “Do you know what to do and what to take with you if there is a wildfire in our area and you must evacuate? Now is the time to prepare!”
Chief Baker directed the public to familiarize itself with the Ready, Set, Go! program that provides information on how to prepare for each stage of a wildfire event and what actions to take with each one.
Homeland Security and Emergency Management Director Ken Snipes stressed the importance for members of the public to be proactive in protecting their homes, property, and family and help those who are unable to help themselves.
Director Snipes encouraged members of the public with special medical needs or physical limitations to register for the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR). The free registry provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with additional information on the needs of our community.
“Now is the time to meet your neighbors. Check on friends and family, especially our older community members or those who may be more vulnerable,” Snipes said. “It is important for anyone with disabilities to register for the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry. We can best support those who are most vulnerable if we know in advance where you are and what resources you may need.”
Resources:
Watch Press Conference: English | Spanish
City of Austin Emergency Declaration of Disaster
State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR)
Ready, Set, Go! Personal Action Guide | Spanish
Warn Central Texas Emergency Alerts | 
