Drought-like conditions and a series of recent brush fires led local fire officials to declare an immediate ban on outside burning in municipalities in southeastern Wisconsin. The ban was ordered Monday morning, effective immediately, in the City of Kenosha, Village of Pleasant Prairie, the Village and Town of Somers, Town of Paris, Village of Salem Lakes and Town of Randall. Several communities had already issued bans.
In Racine County, however, none have been issued as of press time Monday. “Due to the extensive drought conditions, many communities have had multiple calls for grass and brush fires,” said Somers Fire Chief Carson Wilkinson. “Because it’s so dry, often they are started by something as simple as someone tossing out a cigarette butt.” Salem Lakes Interim Fire Chief James Lejcar stated Monday, “It is imperative that a burn ban be put into effect to ensure the fire safety for all residents within the Village of Salem Lakes.