WHEREAS, fire safety and prevention are of utmost importance for every Alaskan. Each year, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss throughout our state; and
WHEREAS, in 2018, there were 820 residential structure fires reported in Alaska, resulting in nine civilian deaths, 60 civilian injuries, 37 firefighter injuries and $28,630,057 in property loss; and
WHEREAS, unsafe heating methods, unattended cooking, and electrical malfunctions were the three most common causes of residential fires in Alaska, and notably, 36% of home fire deaths result from fires in properties with no smoke alarms installed; and
WHEREAS, fire and smoke alarm systems provide the necessary early warning to occupants, and the fire department. Every Alaskan household should have properly functioning and regularly tested fire safety equipment such as smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers, as well as an established fire escape plan; and
WHEREAS, it is vital Alaskans remain vigilant in protecting their homes and families by practicing simple fire prevention measures every day, such as engaged cooking, cautious use of home heating equipment, and proper placement of ignitable materials; and
WHEREAS, by following and utilizing these important fire safety and prevention guidelines and methods, we can reduce fire-related injuries and prevent future loss of life in our communities. We encourage all Alaskans to practice this year’s fire safety theme, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!”
NOW THEREFORE, I, Michael J. Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 2019 as:
Fire Prevention Month
in Alaska, and encourage all Alaskans to be proactive and take precautionary measures to avoid fires, and participate in public safety activities offered this month by the Alaska Department of Public Safety’s Division of Fire and Life Safety and emergency services across our great state.
