GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – The combination of low humidity and dry grass will raise the potential for wildfires as the temperatures rise in Wisconsin this holiday weekend. That’s why the DNR is emphasizing caution, and recommending that people avoid burning when possible.
“We are suspending all DNR burning permits today in 43 counties. And in areas outside of DNR protection, we’re asking folks to check with local fire officials if you have any questions about burning,” said Wildfire Prevention Specialist Catherine Koele. “The key message here is to avoid burning this weekend. We are going to see that uptick in wind, but I’ll be honest my concern is more about people get a little complacent over the weekend choosing to burn with those lighter winds.”
But there is no burn ban in place. A statewide ban is typically only announced if there is a longer-term projected situation like a drought. It also requires a longer process, including signatures from the department secretary and the governor.
“A burn ban it would be emergency burning restrictions, and we only have that authority in DNR protection areas where the DNR has primary responsibility,” Koele explained.
Designated DNR fire protection areas in Wisconsin. (IMAGE: Courtesy of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources)
The state has seen 55 fires burn over 200 acres in the past week alone. Those numbers are higher than years passed.
“We’re well above our five and ten year averages in both numbers of fires and acres burned,” said DNR Fire Suppression Specialist Eric Martin. “We ask people not to burn debris piles or burn barrels, especially moving into the holiday weekend.”
“The number one cause of fires in Wisconsin is debris burning. So folks who are outside for the beautiful weekend cleaning up around their yards and choosing to burn those materials, that has a high probability of causing a fire with the weather conditions we’re seeing right now,” Koele added. “Follow the restrictions day-to-day, because that fire danger in Wisconsin can change very quickly. It’s important to know what that is as conditions change.”
Things like campfires for warming and cooking are still allowed, but are being discouraged due to the predicted weather conditions. If you are making a campfire, Koele recommends keeping it small, containing it if possible to deter sparks from spreading, and making sure the area around the fire is clear of flammable materials. It’s also advised to burn at night, as the humidity and dew points rise and winds tend to fall, creating better conditions.
“We’re early. We’ll see how the green-up progresses here and if we get these rain events or if we continue with dry conditions. That’s what’s really going to spell that going forward throughout the rest of the spring,” Martin said.
“Until we get some significant precipitation, we’re going to be working. Things that the public can do is, again, check local fire officials and obtain proper burning permits before you conduct any burning, especially this spring,” Koele said.
To learn more about DNR burning permits, head to their website.
The entire state is currently listed under the “Very High” category for fire danger.
