08/25/2026
August 25, 2026 - Public Service Announcement - Wildfire Conditions and Fire Prevention
As of 6:30 a.m. the size of the fire has grown to 50,000 acres.
The City of Springtown is monitoring wildfire activity occurring near our area, including the Ross Fire in Palo Pinto County. As of early Tuesday morning, August 25, the Ross Fire had grown to approximately 25,000 acres and was reported at 5% containment, with significant firefighting resources working the incident.
At this time, the Springtown area is NOT in immediate danger from the Ross Fire or other wildfires currently burning to our west. Residents may notice smoke and hazy conditions in the atmosphere from this wildfire, but the fire itself remains 40 miles to our west.
It is critical that residents recognize that the conditions contributing to these fires are also present throughout much of North Texas. Our area remains under an Extreme Heat Warning. Extreme heat, dry vegetation and continued dry conditions have created an elevated risk for fires to start and spread quickly. The situation in Palo Pinto County is an important reminder of how rapidly a grass or brush fire can grow under current conditions. Not only do these conditions contribute to a higher chance of wildfires, they make combating such fires difficult for firefighters.
City of Springtown ordinances prohibit outdoor burning year round. For residents outside the City, Parker County is under a burn ban. Residents should refrain from outdoor burning and comply with all provisions of the county’s burn-ban order. Even activities that do not involve intentional outdoor burning can start a wildfire. Residents are urged to use extreme caution with anything capable of producing a flame, spark or significant heat. During these conditions, residents can help protect their homes, neighborhoods and first responders by:
* Avoiding outdoor burning and complying with City of Springtown ordinances prohibiting outdoor burning as well as the Parker County burn ban.
* Properly disposing of ci******es and other smoking materials.
* Avoiding parking or driving vehicles over tall, dry grass, where hot exhaust components can ignite vegetation.
* Using extra caution when mowing, welding, grinding or operating equipment that can create sparks.
* Keeping dry grass, leaves, brush and other combustible vegetation cleared away from homes, fences and other structures.
* Keeping grass maintained and removing accumulated dead vegetation where possible.
* Securing trailer chains so they cannot drag on pavement and create sparks.
* Keeping a garden hose, fire extinguisher or other appropriate means of extinguishment readily available when performing outdoor work.
* Immediately reporting unattended or uncontrolled fires to 911.
The City is also aware that other nearby water suppliers are operating under drought contingency restrictions and that may bring some residents concern about the ability for firefighters to provide adequate fire suppression or protection in the event of a fire. The City of Springtown is not currently under drought contingency restrictions. The City’s water system has an adequate water supply to meet current community needs, including water necessary for fire suppression should it become necessary.
Residents should continue using water responsibly, particularly during periods of extreme heat and dry weather, but there are currently no drought-related watering restrictions in effect for customers of the City of Springtown water system.
The Ross Fire demonstrates how quickly wildfire conditions can change. While Springtown is not currently threatened by the Ross Fire, everyone has a role in preventing the next fire from starting.
The City will continue monitoring conditions. Should conditions change or should there be any threat to the Springtown area, the City will provide information to residents through its official communication channels.
Please remain vigilant; residents outside of the city limits should comply with the Parker County burn ban and residents inside the city limits should follow the City’s ordinances prohibiting outdoor burning, and all residents should take any precautions possible to prevent activities that could accidentally start a fire.
Springtown is not currently in danger — but under the present conditions, fire prevention is critical.
