This month, Alaska joins the nation in celebrating our independence. Summer in Alaska is known for hiking, fishing and camping under the midnight sun. Unfortunately, with extended daylight hours, dry conditions, and increasingly warm temperatures, wildfires are a serious issue during the Alaskan summer months. Enjoy safe summer holiday celebrations. Do your part to prevent wild fires.
Red Flag Warning For the Holiday Weekend
Summer 2022 has already proven to be a record fire season. Much of Alaska has been in A “Red Flag” status, in particular interior Alaska. Due to high fire activity across the state – including three active fires in the Fairbanks area – the Alaska Multi-Agency Coordination Group raised Alaska’s Fire Preparedness Level. As of Thursday, June 30, the state moved to Level 5 – the highest level. Fireworks are prohibited throughout Alaska until further notice.
Prevent Wildfires
Unlike many natural disasters, people cause most wildfires. Wildfires can be prevented by people, too. Do not discard cigarettes, matches, or smoking material from moving vehicles, or anywhere on park grounds. Completely extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them. Enjoy safe summer holiday celebrations.
Wild Fires Impair Driving
Heavy smoke along the Alaskan Highways reduces visibility and summer tourist traffic is increasing. Please Slow Down Alaska and exercise extreme caution in smoky areas. Drivers trying to make themselves more visible to others may mistakenly think that it is a good idea to turn on their high beams. Instead, low-beam headlights are preferable and less distracting than high beams.
Report Alaska Wild Fires Immediately – Dial 911 or (800)237-3633
In the event a fire is close to your home, gather important documents, medications, personal identification, and other emergency supplies into a kit and store in a safe, easily accessible spot. Create an evacuation plan in case of an immediate threat. Always plan more than one exit route to avoid potential delays.
Prepare your home for the worst-case scenario by clearing items such as yard waste, fire wood, barbecues, and fuel cans from your yard. Ensure spaces below decks and sheds are clear of hazardous debris. Fill any large containers, such as pools, hot tubs, garbage cans, or tubs with water to deter fire. Close windows, vents and doors and turn off any natural gas, propane or fuel oil supplies before leaving.
Homeowners insurance typically includes coverage for damage to your home and personal belongings caused by a wildfire. Standard homeowners policies usually include fire protection, but coverage may vary by geographic location and policy language.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: Alaska Wildland Fire Information; National Geographic; National Weather Service; Fairbanks Daily News Miner; Ward Merdes
Image Source: Adobe Stock
