(Juneau) - Governor Frank Murkowski signed House Bill 395 into law this morning, changing the dates of the fire season. Sponsored by Representative Kurt Olson (R-Kenai), HB 395 changes the beginning date of fire season from May 1st to April 1st.

This date change will allow the Division of Forestry to begin the process of preparing for the fire season to prevent more early-season fires, also known as "pre-green up" fires, a statewide problem. It will also provide assistance in preventing and fighting early season wildfires by allow equipment and personnel to get recertified and in place for early season fires.

"Last year, 5400 acres near Homer were burned in a fire that started before the beginning of the fire season. Only one firefighting airplane was in the state at the time this fire started," said Representative Olson. "Preseason fires are becoming more and more common in Alaska. I hope this change will go a long way to help protect the lives and property of Alaskans all over the state."

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