Debris Burning: The #1 Cause of Wildfire in Wisconsin
Debris burning is
the #1 cause of wildfire in Wisconsin. More than 1,000 fires
each year are caused by debris burning. In most cases, the
person responsible was burning outside local restrictions.
Outdoor burning in Wisconsin is regulated and in the City of
Altoona, a permit is required.
Remember! If your open burning project
grows into a wildland fire, you will be liable for
suppression costs and damages to property, including the value
of timber lost.
Instead of burning, people are encouraged to consider safer and
more environmentally friendly options like chipping, composting,
recycling, and creating brush piles for wildlife habitat.
However, if you should decide to burn, there are certain
precautions you should take.
ü
In Altoona, a written permit is
required. Please phone the Fire Department at 839-2970 to see
if burning is allowed that day.
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Do not begin burning until you fully
understand Altoona’s burning regulations, techniques, and
conditions for when is the safest time of day and year to burn.
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Wait to burn until late spring after
the grass has greened up and late in the day after the wind has
died down.
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Create a 10-foot clearing around any
burning container or piled material.
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Keep brush piles small. If not
completely extinguished, large piles can retain heat buried in
the ash for days or even weeks and flare up on a windy day,
potentially resulting in wildfire.
ü
Keep burning containers and brush
piles away from overhanging branches.
ü
If you use a barrel, please stop!
However, if you must, ensure it is in good condition and the top
is covered with a wire screen.
ü
Do not burn on dry, windy days!
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Always keep a hose and shovel on
hand. Make sure the water is turned on until the burning is
complete and the fire is dead out.
ü
NEVER LEAVE YOUR OUTDOOR BURNING
UNATTENDED!
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Check
out these Internet Sites for More Fire-Related Information:
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Forest Fire Program
Firewise
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Arson Hotline
1-800-362-3005
