The Merrill Fire Department was dispatched for a report of a grass fire threatening two homes located at N769 Fairview Road, Town of Scott, on Saturday afternoon at 1:03 p.m. Initial response from Merrill Fire Department included Engine 62, Medic 61 and Brush 66. Command from Engine 62 requested the DNR, Corning fire with their 6-wheeler to the scene.
Upon arrival Engine 62 assumed command and reported an area of approximately 1/2 acre of light vegetation on fire with 1 to 2 foot flames. The wind was from the West at 5-10 gusts.
Merrill fire companies pulled a hose line from the Engine 62 and extinguished the fire on the west and north sides, fighting the fire from the burned out area. The fire was extinguished by on scene firefighters quickly.
The Merrill Fire Department received mutual from the Wisconsin DNR and Corning fire. They helped with the searching and extinguishment of hot spots.
The DNR forester interviewed the homeowner that called the incident in and the fire spread from a pile of scrap lumber being burned by them. A citation was issued for this burning violation.
As a reminder, the fire danger is very high in Lincoln County. Burning in burn barrels and brush piles is prohibited. Campfires are allowed but are strongly advised against until conditions change.
You can check out the burning restrictions daily at the DNR website (www.dnr.wi.gov) key word “fire” or by calling toll free at 1-888-WIS-BURN (947-2876). To check for restrictions, you need to check after 11 a.m. as that is when it is updated for the day.