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• Fire chiefs declare burn ban

Due to dry conditions, fire officials are spreading the word: No burning until the region gets a drenching, soaking rain.

"It's very, very dry," said River Falls Assistant Fire Chief Mike Moody Monday.

He said the department responded to four grass fires in the past few days plus two structural blazes, with other departments also recognizing dry conditions.

Fire chiefs in River Falls, Hudson, Baldwin/Woodville/Hammond, Prescott, Spring Valley and Elmwood all agreed to ban controlled burns and bonfires, which applies to both city and rural residents. Moody said he also discourages fire pits, "chimineas," or anything else that could throw a spark and ignite dry grass.

"I wouldn't be surprised if all of St. Croix County is under a ban," he said.

Moody said to put a ban in effect, the chiefs discuss it, declare it then announce it to the press and dispatchers. When the region gets rain and turns green, fire officials lift the ban following the same process.

The chiefs informed emergency dispatchers in both counties since people are supposed to call them at the non-emergency number before starting a fire. The call lets emergency personnel know the fire is planned and not accidental.

People can also call the disptach centers to see if the ban is lifted.

The Pierce County non-emergency dispatch number: 715-273-5051. The St. Croix County non-emergency dispatch number: 715-386-4701.