Last week’s wildfire in the Town of Gardner was a reminder that, under current conditions, even the slightest spark can start a blaze. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the fire danger level is rated “high” for nearly two-thirds of the state, including Door and Kewaunee counties. Around 20 counties in the northwest part of the state are rated at the “moderate” level.

Fire danger has climbed due to low humidity, high winds, and a lack of adequate precipitation. The National Weather Service issued a special weather statement through 5 p.m. Monday, urging residents to exercise extra caution when using campfires, outdoor grills, smoking materials, chain saws, and all-terrain vehicles—each of which can throw a spark and ignite a fire.

Last week, an ATV that caught fire near the Gardner Swamp ignited roughly 70 acres of land, triggering a response from nearly 20 departments in four counties. Some departments returned the next day to address smoldering debris that required additional attention.