Wildfire Danger Increases as Landscape Dries

Human-caused fires especially dangerous

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By KTVA CBS 11 News
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Story Created: Apr 30, 2012 at 11:40 AM AKDT

Story Updated: Apr 30, 2012 at 11:40 AM AKDT

ANCHORAGE - Every year an average of 500 wildland fires burn through the state, and 65 percent of those fires are human-caused.

June is typically Alaska’s busiest month for wildland fires, but state officials say the danger is already upon us with many areas of the state drying out quickly.

The interior is already on alert to fight fires with Wasilla and Willow also on the watch list.

State officials say while wildland fire in many areas is nature's way of revitalizing the landscape, human-caused fires tend to occur in populated areas and threaten homes.

"They are very costly. We do hold individuals responsible when they start a wildland fire, and often times that can mean restitution in the millions of dollars, and that is something we do not want people to be facing," said Tom Kurth of the Division of Forestry.
 

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Anonymous said on Monday, Apr 30 at 3:53 PM

Like anyone in Wasilla/Willow that is dumb enough to start a fire is gonna have restitution money....

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Anonymous said on Friday, May 4 at 10:01 AM

did that guy that started one years ago have to pay?

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Drew said on Friday, May 11 at 7:00 AM

this is a good sight, I think it is a perfect explanation

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