The Dallas Fire-Rescue Department and the Office of Emergency Management & Crisis Response are sounding the alarm following a Red Flag Warning issued by the National Weather Service. The caution extends from 11 AM to 9 PM today, with conditions ripe for wildfires: low humidity, high temperatures, and gusty winds that can turn even the smallest spark into disaster.

According to a bulletin released by the City of Dallas, residents should be on high alert and prepare for potential evacuations. There's a slew of precautions you ought to take, starting with properly disposing of your cigarettes – don't be the person whose butt starts a blaze. And it's a hard no on outdoor burning; under a Red Flag Warning, even the tiniest ember can go wild.

Another proactive measure? Securing trailer chains. These can strike sparks that light fires along roadsides, so be certain they’re snug before you hit the road. And on the off chance that you spot smoke or flames, call 911. It's better to be safe than sorry when minutes can matter.

For those using outdoor equipment, check for spark arresters to prevent your tools from igniting the dry Texas terrain. Avoid grass that could go up in flames from a hot exhaust system when parking. Stick to pavement or gravel surfaces. It's also smart to forge a defensive perimeter around your abode by banishing flammable materials within a 30-foot radius, creating a buffer between you and an encroaching wildfire.