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Established in 1898, the Shell Lake Fire Department proudly serves the City of Shell Lake, portions or all of Barronett, Bashaw, Beaverbrook, Dewey, Roosevelt and Sarona townships of Washburn and Burnett Counties in Wisconsin.

We have approximately 180 square miles of coverage. Besides fighting structure fires, Shell Lake fire also assists the DNR in wildland fire protection, cold water & ice rescue training, water rescues, auto extrications, and many other services.

Click the links above to find out more about us.

Latest Fire Dept News

📢 Red Flag Warning in Effect for Shell Lake, WI – Extreme Fire Danger TodayThe National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for Shell Lake and surrounding areas in Washburn County, effective today, May 13, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM CDT. This alert signifies critical fire weather conditions due to a combination of warm temperatures, low humidity, and gusty winds, leading to an increased risk of wildfires. 🔥 Current Conditions:Temperature: High of 87°F (31°C)Humidity: As low as 22%Winds: South at 10–15 mph, gusts up to 20 mphFire Danger Level: Extreme These conditions mean that any fires that ignite could spread rapidly and become difficult to control. 🔥 🚫 Burn Restrictions:The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has suspended burn permits in 30 counties, including Washburn County. Outdoor burning is not recommended during this period. Residents are urged to check the Wisconsin DNR Burn Restrictions Map for the latest information. ✅ Safety Tips:Avoid Outdoor Burning: Do not burn leaves, brush, or other materials.Properly Dispose of Cigarettes: Ensure cigarettes are completely extinguished before disposal.Operate Equipment Safely: Avoid using machinery that can produce sparks near dry vegetation.Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates for changes in fire conditions. Stay safe and vigilant. ... See MoreSee Less
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🚨 Red Flag Warning in Effect Today 🚨🔥 The Shell Lake Fire Department urges all residents and visitors to exercise extreme caution today, Monday, May 12, 2025. A Red Flag Warning is in effect from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM CDT due to critical fire weather conditions. Current Fire Statistics:658 wildfires have burned over 2,200 acres across Wisconsin this year.Burn permits are suspended in 30 counties, including Washburn County. Today's Weather in Shell Lake:High: 86°F (30°C)Low: 59°F (15°C)Conditions: Mostly sunny, breezy, and very warmWinds: South at 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mphRelative Humidity: As low as 15% Safety Recommendations:Avoid all outdoor burning, including campfires and debris fires.Be cautious with equipment that can produce sparks.Ensure any previously burned areas are completely extinguished.Stay updated on local fire conditions and restrictions. For real-time updates and more information, visit the Wisconsin DNR's Fire Danger and Burn Permit Restrictions page. Stay safe and help protect our community from wildfire risks. ... See MoreSee Less
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RED FLAG WARNING for Washburn County - May 11, 2025Critical fire weather conditions are in effect today — low humidity, warm temps, and strong winds mean any spark can start a wildfire.Burn permits are suspended and all outdoor burning is prohibited.Stay safe:No campfires, burning barrels, or debris burningAvoid using equipment that could sparkCheck dnr.wi.gov for updatesHelp prevent wildfires — be fire smart today.#RedFlagWarning #FireSafety #WashburnCounty #WIFireDanger #StaySafe ... See MoreSee Less
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🚨 FIRE DANGER UPDATE – SHELL LAKE FIRE DEPARTMENT 🚨As of May 10, 2025, Washburn County is under Very High fire danger conditions. This means that fires can start easily and spread rapidly. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has reported 658 wildfires statewide this year, burning over 2,220 acres of land. ---🔥 Current Burning RestrictionsDue to the elevated fire danger, DNR burn permits are suspended in 30 counties, including Washburn County. This suspension includes burning in barrels, debris piles, and grass or wooded areas. Even with a permit, all outdoor burning is currently prohibited. This includes campfires, except for those intended for cooking or warmth. However, extreme caution is urged, and daytime campfires should be avoided. ---🏙️ Shell Lake City Burn Permit RequirementsResidents within the City of Shell Lake must obtain a separate city burn permit for any open burning activities. This is in addition to any DNR requirements. To obtain a city burn permit:Contact Shell Lake City Hall at 715-468-7679Visit the official website: shelllake.org Please note that city burn permits are also suspended during periods of elevated fire danger. ---📞 Stay InformedDNR Burn Hotline: 1-888-WIS-BURN (947-2876)Online Resources: Wisconsin DNR Fire Conditions Always prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations to help prevent wildfires. ---For more information and updates, please visit the Shell Lake Fire Department's official website. Stay safe ... See MoreSee Less
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🚨 High Wildfire Danger in Wisconsin – May 9, 2025 🚨The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports that much of the state, including Shell Lake, is experiencing High to Very High wildfire danger today due to dry conditions and gusty winds. 🔥 Wildfire Statistics:658 wildfires have occurred statewide so far in 2025.These fires have burned over 2,220 acres, surpassing the typical average for this time of year. 🚫 Burning Restrictions:The DNR has suspended burn permits in 30 counties where it has authority.In the City of Shell Lake, any outdoor burning requires a city-specific burn permit. Please contact the Shell Lake Zoning Department for more information. ✅ Fire Safety Tips:Avoid outdoor burning during high fire danger periods.If burning is necessary, ensure you have the proper permits and follow all regulations.Always have water and firefighting tools nearby, and never leave fires unattended.Completely extinguish fires before leaving the area. 📞 Stay Informed:Check daily fire danger levels and burning restrictions at the Wisconsin DNR Fire Management Dashboards.For Shell Lake-specific burn permits and regulations, visit the City of Shell Lake Zoning Department. Stay safe and help protect our communities from wildfires. 🌲🔥 ... See MoreSee Less
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