Wisconsin at high risk of wildfires after sunny, dry weather

GREEN BAY - The Department of Natural Resources says most of Wisconsin is at a “high” or “very high” risk of wildfires following several days of sunny weather with no rain.

WLUK-TV reported the department has also halted burning permits in multiple counties with the concern that dry grass and high winds provide the perfect equation for a wildfire to start.

Fond du Lac Fire Chief Peter O’Leary warns of the dangers of starting a fire.

“You could endanger other people, other people’s property, you could endanger your property, your own life,” O’Leary said.

Even something small, like a cigarette, can turn into a large amount of burnt vegetation and start a wildfire.

“It doesn’t take much, and it doesn’t take long,” he said. “All these things are very, very quick.”

John Lubbers, the department’s Forestry Team leader, said that when burning permits are allowed again, people need to “use common sense” and never leave a fire unattended.

“Burn in a safe location, a location that isn’t right next to the dry grass,” Lubbers said.

The wildfire threat is expected to pass soon.

“If you wait a couple weeks, we believe the conditions will get better,” O’Leary said.