by Catherine Koele, wildfire prevention specialist, Wisconsin DNR
It’s no surprise that the number one cause of wildfires in Wisconsin is from human carelessness. What is surprising is that the peak of fire season is in the spring, shortly after the snow-cover disappears and just before vegetation greens-up. Many individuals this time of year are outdoors burning leaves, brush and pine needles from their annual yard clean-up. All too often, this method of debris disposal can spark a wildfire.
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A Smokey Bear sighting in Oneida County this week. This highly recognizable symbol of fire prevention has finally awakened from hibernation, just in time for ‘Wildfire Prevention Week,’ April 15-21. Spring is Wisconsin’s peak season for wildfires. Warm, windy and dry conditions have resulted in over 160 wildfires in the southern half of the state this year, as the snow-melt is slowly progressing to the north. Don’t worry. Smokey is very approachable, friendly and loves to give bear hugs. Do your part to help Smokey by getting a free DNR burning permit and making sure those fires are out before you leave. http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/ForestFire/index.asp
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