A small grass fire in a backyard got under control quickly Tuesday evening, as the Egg Harbor Fire Department responded and put the blaze out within 30 minutes. Fire Chief Justin MacDonald says the burning of materials behind the residence at 5845 State Highway 42 in the Town of Egg Harbor spread to about a 50 by 50-foot area before it could be extinguished completely by firefighters shortly after 6 p.m. McDonald warns property owners that burning bans have been issued now on a day-to-day basis until safer conditions arise.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the current fire situation in Door County remains at a high level while at a very high level in Kewaunee County. Governor Evers also declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday due to the elevated wildfire conditions.
| Gov. Evers Declares State of Emergency Due to Elevated Wildfire Conditions |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today signed Executive Order #191 declaring a state of emergency in response to elevated wildfire conditions throughout the state. “Protecting Wisconsinites from the destructive danger of wildfire is a top priority. Although northern Wisconsin still has considerable snow cover, the danger is extreme across much of the state today,” said Gov. Evers. “This executive order will give the Department of Natural Resources the ability to have all available resources ready to be quickly dispatched at critical moments to keep fires small and minimize damage.” The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has requested wildfire suppression support from the Wisconsin National Guard due to elevated fire danger across much of the state. The benefit of the Executive Order will support challenges associated with ongoing statewide wildfire danger and widespread need to enhance suppression capability and protect Wisconsinites. The Executive Order from the governor will assist the state in rapidly mobilizing the Army National Guard’s Blackhawk helicopters to the areas of the state in most need of aerial fire suppression resources during the critical spring fire season; this critical period in Wisconsin generally lasts through the month of May. Wisconsin is heavily invested in achieving quick initial attack to mitigate the potential for large fire development. The National Weather Service indicates weather conditions conducive to wildfires are possible, including gusty winds, low relative humidity, and dry fuels. Executive Order #191 will also direct all state agencies of the state of Wisconsin to assist as appropriate in wildfire prevention, response, and recovery efforts. A copy of Executive Order #191 can be found here. |
| An online version of this release is available here. |
