Fireworks cause a substantial number of fires and a DNR specialist adds to the voices to let the professionals do the fireworks this holiday weekend.
DNR wildfire prevention specialist Catherine Koele, says fireworks are illegal in Wisconsin state parks and forests. She says even though this year has had moisture and the fire danger is lower than most years, the majority of fires during the year are caused by legal fireworks...
“....we see most of our fires started by sparklers or roman candles so we do see a lot of those as a problem. About 5 percent of our fires are caused by fireworks every year. We usually see them condensed around the 4th of July weekend, especially when conditions are dry. Any time you light a fire outdoors, there's a risk of wildfire...."
A citation for illegal fireworks in a state park or forest can cost up to $200 and parents could be liable for the full costs of putting out a fire started by their children playing with or setting off fireworks.
Koele says anyone responsible for starting a wildfire in Wisconsin is liable not only for the cost of putting the fire out but also for any damages,
