MADISON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — While people may be happy to see the sun out and the last patches of snow melting, the favorable weather brings with it a springtime danger.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources shows the southern half of Wisconsin in “very high” fire danger as of Monday. That is expected to continue through the week, with warm, windy and dry conditions in the forecast.
In the northern third of the state, significant snow cover is keeping the fire danger low.
The DNR is asking people in Wisconsin to avoid burning in areas where the danger is high. Annual burn permits are suspended in 19 counties. People should also be careful with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and cause a fire.
The DNR said Monday it had responded to 34 fires burning 45 acres in the previous week.
While the fire danger remains high, the DNR recommends:
- Avoid outdoor burning until conditions improve. Burn permits for debris burning are currently suspended in numerous 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.
- Report fires early, dial 911.
