Park Requests Your Diligence in Preventing Fires

Date: May 22, 2015

Copper Center, Alaska -- With extreme fire danger levels throughout eastern interior Alaska, and no relief in sight heading into the Memorial Day Weekend, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is asking
visitors and residents to be diligent and use caution with all activities that could start a wildfire.

Lack of precipitation this spring and hot, windy weather has created extreme fire conditions, particularly in the interior and central Alaska.These conditions mean that given an ignition source, new fires may easily spread quickly

The holiday weekend has, in the past, lead to a number of wildfires that are accidently started by escaped campfires and other recreational activities.While there are not yet fire restrictions in place to prevent the use of small cooking and warming fires or barbeques, diligence is mandatory for any activities that may
cause a spark.

Wildland fire managers ask visitors and residents to stay informed of the fire danger and be aware of changing weather conditions. Please consider your safety and the safety of others and do your part to prevent human-caused fires. We all have a hand in a safe fire season.

For statewide wildfire information, visit: http://akfireinfo.com/.

For additional information please contact Mark Keogh at 907-822-7223.