Wisconsin DNR warns of high fire danger statewide

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resource is warning of a high fire danger throughout the state for the next two days and is urging people to avoid outside burning.

The agency explained on Tuesday that the warm temperatures, low humidity and windy conditions can make it easy for burn piles and campfires to get out of control.

Annual burn permits have been suspended in all areas protected by the DNR due to the conditions, the DNR noted.

The DNR has responded to more wildfires than it normally would at this time of year. DNR officials reported responding to more than four dozen wildfires across the state this week, bringing the yearly total up to 193. To put that in perspective, the DNR had only responded to seven across the state at this time last year.

In addition to avoiding outside burning, the DNR also urged people to discard any hot ashes from woodstoves or fireplaces into a metal container until they are cold. Using off-road vehicles or equipment that could spark is also being cautioned.

The agency listed the following fire safety tips (wording theirs)-

• Report fires early by calling 911.
• Avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve. Burn permits for debris burning are currently suspended in many counties.
• Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.
• Secure dragging trailer chains to avoid creating sparks.
• Do not try to suppress a fire by yourself.
• Never operate drones/unmanned aircraft over or near fires — it endangers the lives of pilots and firefighters and interferes with fire suppression operations.

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