Anchorage Fire Department

For Immediate Release: Deputy Chief Tom Kempton

May 27, 2004 343-2902/317-7233

WILDLAND FIRE PREVENTION DAY

(Press Conference Highlights):

·  The threat of wildfire is a very real threat that the Anchorage Fire Department takes very seriously.

·  We have accelerated our efforts by planning for the threat of wildfire in training and equipping our personnel, along with coordinating with state and federal wildfire agencies.

·  We have been very fortunate in having the assistance of Senator Ted Stevens, who recognizes the magnitude of this threat and who has consistently provided the vital funding that is necessary to prepare for wildfires.

·  We lack only one thing: the assistance of every citizen in preventing wildfires. Each homeowner must recognize their personal responsibility to make sure that their home and property is made Firewise! Here is what you can do now:

·  Check out the Anchorage Fire Department’s Firewise web page at www.muni.org to learn more about making your home Firewise.

·  Watch Municipal Cable Channel 10 to learn more about how to prepare and survive a wildfire.

Please join the Governor and the Anchorage Fire Department as we proclaim today as “Wildland Fire Prevention Day”.

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