WHEREAS, fires cause devastating personal injury and property loss throughout Alaska; and
WHEREAS, fire is a serious public safety concern, and people are at the most significant risk from fire in their or others’ homes; and
WHEREAS, in 2023, there were 792 residential structures fires reported in Alaska, resulting in 19 civilian deaths, 65 civilian injuries, 17 firefighter injuries, and $46,990,671 in property loss; and
WHEREAS, the three most common causes of residential fires in Alaska are unattended cooking methods, unsafe heating, and other preventable, human-caused acts, with 57 percent of home fire deaths resulting from fires in properties with no smoke alarms installed; and
WHEREAS, it is essential for every Alaskan household to have properly functioning fire safety equipment such as smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and fire extinguishers, and to test them regularly, as well as a well-prepared fire escape plan; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative that Alaskans perform their responsibility to protect their homes and families by practicing simple fire prevention measures every day. Never leave cooking unattended and keep cooking areas clean and free from ignitable materials, be cautious with home heating equipment, keeping anything that can burn at least three feet away, and ensure that heating equipment and chimneys are cleaned and inspected every year by a qualified professional; and
WHEREAS, by following and utilizing these critical 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, “Smoke Alarms, Make Them WORK for You!”
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 2024 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.
Dated: October 1, 2024
