Spring has arrived quickly leaving many areas very dry and at high risk for wildfire.
DNR fire control officials are asking the public to delay residential burning, on the ground or in a burn barrel, until conditions improve. The safest bet is to not burn at all or wait until trees and fields are green with new growth.
Fire danger conditions are updated daily during Wisconsin’s fire season. The department’s Web site also directs citizens through the burning permit process and offers tips for making a home survivable from wildfire.
“Warmer temperatures, the start of local farmers markets, longer daylight hours, and the anticipation of a big catch on the fishing opener all signal spring,” said Trent Marty, chief of DNR forest protection. “Spring temperatures and snowmelt also motivate residents and visitors to do annual clean-up around their yards.”
Forestry officials are asking the public not to conduct any residential burning until the fire danger improves. Here’s why:
Top 10 reasons not to burn yard waste right now.
1. SAFETY: Burning places firefighters and civilians at risk. Last year alone, during active wildfires, the DNR lost one of its pilots, 10 civilians were injured and five deaths occurred; mostly related to attempting to suppress escaped fires.
2. STRUCTURES: Burning places homes and communities at risk. On average, Wisconsin loses nearly 80 structures every year. Firewise practices help [www.firewise.org] (exit DNR) homes survive on their own without suppression efforts.
3. FORESTS: Unplanned and uncontrolled wildfires place natural resources at risk. Wisconsin’s trees and forests support jobs and the wildlife we love to see.
4. HISTORY: Statistics show that people cause nearly 98% of all wildfires in Wisconsin. Debris burning is the number one human-cause and typically the product of well-intended citizens who were “just cleaning up.”
5. WEATHER: More than 75 percent of all wildfires in Wisconsin occur in the months of April and May. This time of the year, vegetation is dead and dry; winds are dry and strong and humidity is low.
6. HEALTH: Burning can be smelly and unhealthy, and neighbors will thank you if you choose a more environmentally friendly option.
7. ALTERNATIVES: Composting, recycling, or leaving yard waste in the woods for wildlife habitat are smart alternatives to burning. Most communities have transfer sites or garbage pick-up and drop-off locations. Check locally before burning.
8. COST: Anyone found responsible for starting a wildfire is liable for all of its suppression costs. This could mean the cost of firefighters, fire trucks, airplanes and even the cost of damages. Visiting a transfer site or paying a minimal fee to dispose of yard waste and garbage is a worthwhile investment.
9. LAWS: It is unlawful to burn garbage. DNR burning permits are only good for the burning of brush, leaves, pine needles, grass, clean wood and unrecyclable paper or cardboard.
10. RESPONSIBILITY: It’s just not the right thing to do right now! Wait until the fire danger is LOW. Always obtain proper permits and check with local fire officials for the best time to burn and other tips to make your fire safe. Follow Smokey’s lead: “Only you can prevent wildfires!”
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Catherine Koele, Wildfire Prevention Specialist, Wisconsin DNR; Robert Manwell (608) 264-9248
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