Pickerel Volunteer Fire Department

05/17/2026

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Paul, owner of Paul's Final Lap Bar, along with everyone who participates in the Queen of Hearts drawing.

Through your generosity and continued support, proceeds from the drawing are helping our completely volunteer fire department continue expanding and improving our station so we can better serve and protect the community we all call home.

As a volunteer department, every call answered, every training completed, and every hour served is done by members of this community who dedicate their time and hearts to helping others. Support like this makes a real and lasting impact — not only for our department, but for every family, home, and person who depends on us in times of need.

We are truly humbled by the kindness and support shown by Paul’s Final Lap and this incredible community. Thank you for standing behind your volunteer firefighters and helping us continue our mission of protecting and serving others. 🚒❤️

Interested in serving your community and becoming part of our department? We are always looking for dedicated individuals to join our team. Please message our page or email us at [email protected] for more information.

05/16/2026

The Wisconsin DNR, in conjunction with the National Weather Service, has issued a Red Flag Warning for today, Friday, May 15, 2026 from noon to 9 p.m. for the following 11 counties:

Ashland, Barron, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Polk, Rusk, Sawyer, Vilas and Washburn

A Red Flag Warning is issued when a variety of weather factors come together to create especially dangerous wildland fire conditions. Warm temperatures, very low humidity, gusty winds and exceptionally dry fuels from lack of precipitation in the region are forecast and can result in catastrophic fires.

Recent rains have not minimized wildfire concerns, as grasses, pine needles and leaf litter can dry out again very quickly between precipitation events, creating hazardous conditions.

In addition to the Red Flag Warning, all DNR-issued burn permits for debris piles and broadcast burning are suspended in 26 counties, with additional suspensions possible throughout the weekend. Find updated information on DNR burning permit suspensions on the DNR's WisBurn tool: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn/ #/BurnRestrictions

The DNR has responded to nearly 500 wildfires thus far in 2026, with 45% of those caused by debris burning.

The DNR is asking the public to be especially careful with any activities that could potentially lead to a wildland fire and check any fires from recent days to make sure they have been properly extinguished.
Campfires, ashes from fireplaces, outdoor grills, smoking, chainsaws, off-road vehicles or other small engines with hot exhaust systems have the potential to throw a spark, ignite a fire and spread quickly. Please use extreme caution until conditions improve.

The DNR is at full staffing and preparedness across the state to respond to any incidents.

05/16/2026

We're asking the public to avoid outdoor burning activities, as fire danger has reached Critical levels across Northern and Western Wisconsin Thursday, May 14 through the evening of Saturday, May 16.

In conjunction with the National Weather Service, a Red Flag Warning is forecast for Friday, May 15 from noon to 9 p.m. in the following counties: Douglas, Bayfield, Washburn, Burnett, Sawyer, Ashland, Iron, Rusk, Barron, Polk and Vilas.

As of Thursday, May 14, DNR burning permits are suspended in 31 counties. Additional suspensions are possible with worsening conditions forecast heading into the weekend. Find updated information on DNR burning permit suspensions on the DNR's WisBurn tool: https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn/ #/BurnRestrictions

Fire risk is increased by ongoing dry vegetation, low humidity, warming temperatures and gusty winds forecast heading into the weekend, with Very High fire danger anticipated in areas where vegetation has not fully greened up.

Wisconsin's fire season is currently at its annual peak, as pine trees in areas with sandy soils are extremely vulnerable to "crown fires," wherein flames move from the ground to the tree tops and spread with intensity. Recent rains have not minimized wildfire concerns, as grasses, pine needles and leaf litter can dry out in just a few days between precipitation events, creating hazardous conditions.

As elevated fire risks persist, the DNR will continue to suspend all DNR-issued burn permits for debris piles and broadcast burning until widespread rain occurs. The DNR has responded to nearly 500 wildfires thus far in 2026, with 45% of those caused by debris burning.

Embers from any recent fires, especially burn piles and campfires, can easily get out of control and cause a wildfire if not properly extinguished. Please avoid all burning in areas of concern, including warming or cooking fires, until conditions improve.

Outdoor enthusiasts should also be extra careful with off-road vehicles or equipment that can create a spark and start a fire. With dry weather conditions across much of the state, fires can spark at any time.
Follow these simple tips to prevent wildfires from getting out of control:

– Avoid outdoor burning, including campfires, until conditions improve.
– Operate equipment (chainsaws, off-road vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.) early in the morning or late in the day to avoid sparks at peak burn hours.
– Secure dragging trailer chains.
– Report fires early and call 911.

Check current fire danger, wildfire reports and burning restrictions on our website at https://apps.dnr.wi.gov/wisburn/ #/

05/05/2026

We are looking for 2 bids for weekly mowing of station 3, at N9393 Johnson rd. If you are interested please send a bid to 9537 crystal lake ln pickerel wi 54465 by May 10th. The red outline is the area that needs to be mowed.

03/15/2026

Given the anticipated snowfall over the next few days, we would like to remind you to make sure that your furnace vents remain clear of debris to prevent blockages and carbon monoxide buildup within your home. In the event of a power outage, please remember to operate your generator in a well-ventilated outdoor area to prevent carbon monoxide accumulation.
We encourage those who are able to stay home to do so. We also acknowledge that some individuals have job commitments and must travel, so we encourage you to bring essential items such as blankets, flashlights, water, and snacks in case of an emergency.
Stay safe and stay warm!

03/15/2026

***Emergency Information***

Are you prepared? Please share this information with those that do not have access to social media.

02/10/2026

This Valentine’s Day ❤️ love is in the air and so is the smell of something delicious. Just remember: staying in the kitchen while cooking can help prevent fires and protect the people you love.

More tips: nfpa.org/cooking

08/30/2025

Outdoor grilling is popular throughout the year. Learn how to be careful around the grill to prevent fires, burns, and property damage.

08/27/2025

Check, double check and triple check those smoke alarms. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense in a fire, but only if they’re working properly.

Do this to make sure they’re ready in case of an emergency:

✅ Test your smoke alarms monthly
✅ Replace batteries if needed
✅ Replace the alarm if older than 10 years

📅 Not sure how old your alarm is? Check the manufacture date on the back!

For more information: nfpa.org/smokealarms

08/20/2025

Did You Know? Pets can accidentally start fires!

Keep furry friends safe by:
✔ Consider using flameless candles
✔ Keep pets away from stoves and countertops
✔ Have working smoke alarms on every level and test often

Fire safety includes the WHOLE family—tails included!

Download our pet safety tip sheet here: https://nfpa.social/4jid9kF