Big Lake event good reminder of fire's legacy

A day of remembrance was observed Thursday in Big Lake. Residents gathered with borough and state officials to commemorate the anniversary of the Millers Reach Fire 10 years to the day after the devastating blaze was designated &#8220under control.”

In the two weeks that preceded June 15, 1996, nearly 40,000 acres and 350 structures went up in smoke. Although many residents of the area lost homes, pets and memories, amazingly, there were no human fatalities.

Even as flames were physically tearing the Valley community apart, leaving more than 1,500 people in need of emergency services, individuals and organizations provided a healing human touch that kept the community bound together. The outpouring of support in the form of food, clothing, shelter and general kindness from within the community were constant reminders of the specialness of this place we call home.

It should be no surprise, then, that a study just released by the Corporation for National and Community Service about state-by-state trends in volunteerism ranked Alaska fifth in the country for residents' level of volunteering. Perhaps it is our remoteness and wildness that contributes to a sense of &#8220being in it together.” Whatever the case, Alaskans know all about taking care of each other.

During the fire, some 103 agencies and organizations, many of them nonprofits reliant on community good will and volunteers, assisted with the relief effort, according to the state Division of Forestry. What statistics don't measure, but is certainly worth noting, is the additional lift supplied at the time by individuals.

During the festivities Thursday in Big Lake, time also was taken to recognize the community of Horseshoe Lake for its status as the first in the state to be certified as &#8220Firewise.” The honor is a good reminder of the importance of the Firewise program, and Horseshoe Lake is an excellent model for others.

Perhaps the single most significant defensive initiative to take root after the Millers Reach Fire, the Firewise program encourages homeowners to create their own &#8220defensible space” around their homes by clearing out flammable vegetation, dead trees and low-hanging branches within 30 feet of dwellings.

The borough has been a high-profile partner in increasing resident awareness of the importance of being Firewise. More information about the program and tips on how to keep property better insulated from the risk of wildfire can be acquired by calling the borough's Department of Emergency Services, 373-8822. The borough, through its wildfire mitigation office, also offers free assistance to identify potential fire hazards outside the home. Interested property owners may call 373-8823.