WAUPUN — The Waupun Fire Department sent a contingent of fire fighters to Black River Falls Friday morning to assist with the ongoing Arcadia Fire. The wildfire covers more than 2,800 acres of land in Jackson County.
The Waupun Fire Department released a post on Facebook Friday morning announcing their departure. According to the post, firefighters Barnes, Fenz, O’Neill, Ruis, and Fire Chief DeMaa were deployed as part of a 3-county strike team to assist near Black River Falls.
“The operational period for this group is expected to run from 0600-1800 hrs,” the post said. “If all goes as planned, the crew should return home late this evening or early Saturday morning.”
Mayor Bishop said that Fire Chief DeMaa called him before they left to see if he had any objections on sending a team, which he had none.
“I’m proud of our guys and that Waupun Fire and Rescue can help with this natural disaster,” Mayor Bishop said in a statement to WPN. “Hopefully, they’ll be able to contain the fire and end the threat.”
The State of Wisconsin declared a state of emergency earlier this week for the “extreme” wildfire conditions across the southern half of the state, including Fond du Lac and Dodge Counties.
The DNR’s wildfire prevention tips include avoiding outdoor burning until conditions improve, operating equipment in the mornings or evenings, and securing chains or anything that could cause sparks when dragged. If you witness an uncontrolled fire, report it to the proper authorities immediately.
