Hotline created; air support big partners in fire fight; shifting winds may help push fire away
Here are some quick updates about the ongoing Douglas County Wildfire, also known as the Germann Road Fire, that has burned about 9,000 acres but is about 90 to 95 percent contained.
The DNR activated a Hotline for residents whose properties may have been impacted by the wildfire. The Hotline is to learn status of properties as well as to schedule escorted visits to homes and other properties to retrieve pets and supplies. The Hotline number is: 715-376-4185.
The weather forecast is for the winds to shift from the northwest to the west. This shift may help push the fire from the more populated areas.
The National Guard Blackhawk Helicopters and two water bombers sent from Ontario have provided excellent support for fire crews working in hot areas on the ground.
And the conservation wardens remain on wildfire duty. They are assisting with the fire investigation -- the cause of this wildfire is unknown. They also are helping with evacuations and other public safety needs, and they are monitoring lake activity while the planes fly down to grab water for more aerial drops.
The DNR has created a new web page dedicated to the fire.
http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/ForestFire/GermannRoadFire.html Very High fire danger present in state. ALL DNR fire permits suspended for today. Red Flag Warning in Florence and Marinette counties. Exercise extreme caution with outdoor activities today.
If you see smoke in the air, call 911 immediately.
Stay safe!
