Fire Prevention Month
Effective Date: Monday, October 1st, 2012
WHEREAS, fire safety and prevention is of vital importance and is the responsibility of every Alaskan; and
WHEREAS, in Alaska in 2011, residential fires constituted 76 percent of all structure fires, and 11 Alaskans lost their lives in fires. All but one of these fatal fires was in a residential structure; and
WHEREAS, unsafe heating methods and leaving cooking unattended are the two most frequent causes of home fires in Alaska. By using simple precautions, especially as winter draws near, Alaskans can prevent each of these types of fires; and
WHEREAS, it is important for every Alaskan household to have properly functioning fire safety equipment – at minimum, a smoke alarm and fire extinguishers – and a well-prepared escape plan which is practiced regularly. Children should clearly understand expectations and basic safety rules in the event of a fire; and
WHEREAS, we support the efforts of fire prevention professionals and affirm our commitment to fire safety during the month of October. The Department of Public Safety’s Division of Fire and Life Safety, along with fire and emergency service agencies throughout the state of Alaska, will educate Alaskans about fire safety practices and prevention techniques throughout the month. To learn more or find more tips for your family, visit www.akburny.com.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim October 2012 as:
Fire Prevention Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to find out how they can help prevent fire deaths and injuries at home, in school, and in their communities by participating in fire prevention activities and focusing on the 2012 theme – “Fire Prevention is Everyone’s Responsibility.”
Dated: September 10, 2012
