(COLLEGE STATION)-The Texas Forest Service is on high alert predicting a "critical wildfire danger" Friday, citing gusty winds, low relative humidity values and critically dry vegetation as major factors.

"These conditions could easily lead to significant wildfire occurrences," said TFS predictive services department head Tom Spencer.

Spencer defined a significant wildfire as one that could exceed the control of local resources and thus pose a serious threat to citizens and property.

The agency’s focus of concern is along the Interstate 35 corridor and areas west.

"The critical wildfire weather and critically dry fuels present a serious concern to this area of the state," Spencer says.

In Texas, people start 95 percent of wildfires, according to statistics maintained by the forestry service.

The service says Texans need to be aware of the conditions and should not engage in activities, such as throwing out lit cigarettes, bailing hay, welding and burning debris, that could lead to an accidental wildfire start.

Since the beginning of the winter 2009 wildfire season, which started January 22, the Texas Forest Service assisted local fire departments, responding to 186 wildfires for 30,009 acres.

During the same period, local fire departments have reported an additional 1,255 wildfires for 25,191 acres according to an online database managed by the agency.

The Governor’s division of emergency management offers the following tips if your home is threatened by a significant wildfire:

• Shut off gas at the meter and turn off propane at the tank.
  
  • Only a qualified professional should restore gas/propane service.
  
  
• Place combustible patio furniture inside.
  
• Seal attic and ground vents with pre-cut plywood or commercial seals.
  
• Wet down or remove shrubs within 15 feet of your residence.
  
• Place lawn sprinklers on roof and near above-ground fuel tanks.
  
• Wet down the roof.
  
• Close windows, vents, doors, blinds and non combustible window coverings.
  
• Remove flammable drapes and curtains.
  
• Close interior doors and windows to prevent drafts.
  
• Park your car facing the direction of escape.
  

• Do so immediately.
  
• Choose a route away from the fire hazard.
  
• Be alert to changes in the speed and direction of fire and smoke.