FISH CREEK — Although Gov. Tony Evers on Monday declared a state of emergency because of heightened wildfire risks in Wisconsin, campfires are still allowed in state park campgrounds.

“At this time, we do not have any emergency burning restrictions — meaning no suspension or restrictions on the use of small fires for warming or cooking purposes,” said a DNR spokesperson.

There have been a few cases of campfires escaping this week, and officials urge campers to use extreme caution.

Keep your fire within a designated fire ring or surrounded by rocks. Have tools and water handy and never leave your fire unattended and make sure it’s out before you leave. 

The DNR also recommends using a campfire in the evening hours when the weather is more favorable. 

The warnings come as the DNR has suspended fire permits in its fire protection areas and Gov. Tony Evers has declared a state of emergency.

Due to the elevated fire risk across the state, burning remains suspended with DNR-issued annual burning permits for debris piles, barrels and grass or wooded areas across the DNR Protection Area. Those outside the DNR Protection Area should check with your local authorities for any burning restrictions.

There have already been more than 320 wildfires reported in Wisconsin so far this year, burning over 1,400 acres. Fire officials anticipate a slightly longer than average fire season due to early snow melting around the state.

Evers issued the state of emergency order after the DNR has requested wildfire suppression support from the Wisconsin National Guard due to elevated fire danger across the state.

The order will support challenges associated with ongoing statewide wildfire danger and widespread need to enhance suppression capability and protect Wisconsinites.

“With nearly the entire state experiencing high or very high fire risk, protecting Wisconsinites from the destructive dangers of wildfires is a top priority,” Gov. Evers said in a news release. “The ability of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to have all available resources ready to be quickly dispatched is a critical element in keeping fires small and achieving swift containment.”