Wildfires are a serious problem in Wisconsin during the spring. If left unattended, large portions of our forests and grasslands can be at risk as well as the people who live in these areas and their property. That’s why the forestry division of the Wisconsin DNR uses fire towers to help spot fires before they get too big.

• Wisconsin started using fire towers around 1910 to help detect forest fires.

• Towers are usually about 100 feet high.

• Fire towers are often placed strategically so that tower personnel can contact other towers close by to verify the location of the fire.