GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – A dry weather pattern moving into Wisconsin is raising concerns about outbreaks of wildfire.
Catherine Koele, a DNR Wildfire Prevention Specialist, says the majority of the state is either at high or very high fire danger.
“As soon as that snow cover disappears and with the warmer temperatures, lower relative humidity, and the lighter winds we are seeing, we’re certainly at an elevated fire risk.”
Koele says it hard to tell right now if it’s going to be a rough season for battling blazes.
“As things green, that’s what basically shut down fire season for the most part so, it depends on how much moisture we have and how quickly things will green up.”
What should you do if you witness an out of control fire?
“If you do find yourself in a situation where you have an escaped fire, dial 9-1-1 immediately,” says Koele.” Please do not take any action on that fire. We do see a lot of injuries occur from people trying to put a fire out so, leave it to the experts and let us get to the fire as soon as possible.”
Next week is Wildfire Prevention Week. If you are planning a controlled burn it’s important to get a burning permit and follow the rules no matter what.
Find more information on preventing wildfires at www.dnr.wi.gov.
