Spring wildfire season is upon us and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging the public to check fire danger before conducting outdoor burning activities.
Nearly 170 wildfires have burned over 450 acres already this year, according to the DNR; four times more than a typical year at this time.
Dry weather and gusty winds are expected today and tomorrow, leading to the potential for increased wildfire activity. Burn permit suspensions will be in effect in several southern and central Wisconsin counties.
Some minimal chances of rain are expected over the weekend, but fire officials anticipate the fire danger will be on an upward swing over the coming weeks until there is significant precipitation.
With the onset of the spring fire season and the forecasted conditions, fire officials have begun staffing fire equipment throughout Wisconsin. Areas are especially vulnerable after the snow cover melts and prior to vegetation greening up. Northern Wisconsin still has lingering snow in the woods but it is rapidly melting with the warmer temperatures.
The main cause of wildfires this time of year is burning brush and leaf piles, and debris burning continues to be the No. 1 cause of wildfires in Wisconsin.
Burning permits are required in DNR Protection Areas anytime the ground is not completely snow-covered. Permit holders are authorized to burn vegetative materials, such as leaves, brush and needles and are designed so that burning is done safely with minimal wildfire risk. Permits are free and can be obtained online or by calling 1-888-WIS-BURN (947-2876).
Once a burn permit has been obtained, the individual must call or go online after 9 a.m. on the day of the planned burn to check daily burn restrictions, such as the legal burning hours, size limitations or if burning has been suspended for the day. Small campfires for warming or cooking do not require a burning permit.
Some areas of the state are not regulated by the DNR so it’s important to check with local municipal or fire department officials for any ordinances or other burning restrictions.
Sparks from recreational equipment, campfires and hot ashes from fireplaces are also contributing fire causes. Smoldering embers can remain hot for days, even weeks. If using a wood stove or fireplace, empty the ashes into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid or dump them onto bare soil. Then, drown the ashes with water and stir until the embers are completely cold.
The same goes for campfires, burn barrels and burned leaf and brush piles. Before leaving the area, drown the ashes, stir and keep adding water until all heat and smoke is gone.
Check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on the DNR’s website.
