My Northern Wisconsin

Covering Ashland, Iron, Lincoln, Oneida, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, and Vilas Counties


FIRE DANGER IS HIGH IN NORTHERN WISCONSIN


Due to a fire watch being in effect across northern Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is asking the public to avoid burning.  The DNR and partners at the National Weather Service (NWS) are closely monitoring the critical fire danger situation.

"The sandy pines areas of northern Wisconsin are always the slowest to green up.  Additionally, tree growth in this part of the state is at a volatile stage.  Combined with very low humidity and the potential for winds, fires could spread out of control rapidly at this time," the DNR said.  "Warm temperatures, dry air, and windy conditions in the forecast across the north will keep fire danger elevated throughout the week until a chance of rain moves in on Thursday night."

   

Areas with very high fire danger include Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Florence, Forest, Iron, Langlade, Lincoln, Marinette, Oconto, Oneida, Polk, Price, Sawyer, Vilas, and Washburn Counties.

Areas with high fire danger include Barron, Chippewa, Marathon, Menominee, Rusk, Shawano, and Taylor Counties.

The DNR added, "All DNR-issued annual burning permits for debris piles, burn barrels and prescribed burns are suspended today in 21 counties where the DNR has burning permit authority."

This year, the DNR has responded to 281 wildfires burning more than 3,358 acres.  Most of these were related to debris burning, which is the single greatest cause of wildfires in Wisconsin.

(Article continues after promotional message)
[Image: deercreekangus.jpg]
Deer Creek Angus, LLC has a large selection of Black Angus burgers, steaks, roasts, and other beef products sold by individual packages and in quarters, halves, and whole.  Contact Deer Creek Angus, LLC at 715-550-6156, find products & pricing on their website, and follow their Facebook page.

The DNR advised of the following fire safety tips:

Avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve.  Burn permits for debris burning are currently suspended in numerous counties.

Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawn mowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.

Secure trailer chains to keep them from dragging.

Delay having campfires until the evening hours as fire conditions tend to improve; keep them small and contained.  Make sure they are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.

Report fires early; dial 911.