MADISON, WI- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking the public to stay vigilant and avoid burning because of very high fire danger across most of Wisconsin.
The forecast indicates warm, dry and windy conditions today through Thursday. On windy, dry days, embers from any fire, especially burn piles and campfires, can easily escape control and cause a wildfire if not properly extinguished.
Areas with VERY HIGH danger today include Brown, Calumet, Fond du Lac, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Outagamie, Sheboygan, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago counties in Northeast Wisconsin. Shawano County is still in the moderate level.
The DNR has responded to 34 wildfires burning 45 acres in the last week. Fires were small due to quick action by suppression resources.
DNR Conservation Warden Mark Schraufnagel says it is best to wait for green. “It’s amazing how fast that grass and debris dries up. In a few weeks, we will start to see green, then it is a whole different ball game.”
He says it is best to avoid any kind of burning right now, including campfires. “You are just better off to take pause for right now.”
Any fire could quickly start and spread in these conditions. To help us keep Wisconsinites safe, the DNR is asking you to avoid all outdoor burning, including limiting the use of campfires. Outdoor enthusiasts should also use caution with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. Keep in mind that weather conditions can change frequently and quickly become dangerous.
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