Press Release: 4th of July fire safety July 2, 2008 Contact Tom Kempton at 317-7233

The Anchorage Fire Department would like to remind you that all fireworks are illegal within the Municipality Of Anchorage. With fire season already in full swing, residents and visitors are reminded that the potential for wildfire remains throughout most of the state. Penalties for illegal use of fireworks include $25 to $500 fines or imprisonment for 10 days to 6 months. The Anchorage Police Department aggressively enforces regulations prohibiting the use of fireworks.  Additionally, civil actions for the recovery of damage to the resources destroyed, including fire suppression costs, will be pursued. Even a small fire may cost tens of thousands of dollars to suppress. Anyone who starts a wildfire is liable for its consequences. Please have a safe and happy holiday by enjoying the commercial fireworks displays planned throughout Alaskan communities. Enjoy the out-of-doors over the holiday but play it safe! A REMINDER FROM THE INTERAGENCIES: Interagency fire officials would like to remind you to be especially cautious with fire as you celebrate the Fourth of July holiday. Historically, most wildland fires occurring over the Independence Day holiday have been started by people pursuing recreational activities. So far this year, about 90% of the wildland fires reported to the Alaska Interagency Coordination Center have been caused by people. And although the fire season in Alaska has not been severe this year, wildland fuels such as grass, brush and trees can dry out quickly even when it the weather seems mild. If ignited, the dry fuels can quickly grow into large wildfires which put people, homes and other resources at risk. The Alaska Wildland Fire Coordinating Group (which represents Federal, State and Native landowners in Alaska) asks the public to help prevent wildfires from getting started by ensuring that campfires are completely extinguished after use, and that burn permit restrictions are adhered to. Please have a safe, happy holiday and enjoy your time outdoors. To report a wildland fire, call 911 or 1-800-237-3633. For current Alaska wildland fire information visit the http://fire.ak.blm.gov web site. For burn permits in the Municipality Of Anchorage, visit the www.muni.org/fire.