Wildland Fire Prevention and Preparedness Week 2026

WHEREAS, public and firefighter safety is the first priority in all wildland fire management activities within our State, and agencies and organizations in Alaska share a commitment to protecting lives and property while preserving and enhancing the health of forests and wetlands; and

WHEREAS, Alaska's vast expanses of wildlands serve as habitat for fish and wildlife, provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, are home to extensive timber resources, and enrich our Alaskan lifestyle; and

WHEREAS, wildland fires are a natural and inevitable part of the ecosystem and help maintain forest health; they are also unpredictable and can spread rapidly, endangering lives and property; and

WHEREAS, in addition to naturally occurring wildfires, fires caused by people occur every year and often pose a greater threat to residents, firefighters, and property. Human-caused wildland fires pose a serious public safety concern, so Alaskans must use precaution, practice prevention, and be prepared to protect the communities surrounded by and intermingled with undeveloped lands; and

WHEREAS, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry and Fire Protection provides a vital public safety and fire suppression service for Alaskans as we continue to face longer and more intense fire seasons.

NOW THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim May 3 - 9, 2026 as:

Wildland Fire Prevention and Preparedness Week

in Alaska and encourage all Alaskans to recognize the importance of wildfires to the Alaskan landscape, be aware of their potential for damage, and commit to educating themselves on how to reduce the threat of wildland fires to our homes, properties, and communities.

Dated: May 3, 2026