PHOENIX — In response to increased wildfire activity around Arizona, Governor Doug Ducey declared a state of emergency and directed additional resources be made available for the state’s wildfire suppression efforts. Since April 2017, Arizona has experienced more than one dozen large wildfires, aided by high temperatures, winds, and available fuels.
“We thank the many brave men and women who have stepped up and responded to wildfires around Arizona,” said Governor Ducey. “I’m issuing today’s declaration to make sure they have every resource needed to do their jobs and protect our communities. Public safety is our top priority, and we will continue to coordinate with state and local emergency response officials to keep Arizonans safe.”
Today’s declaration issues a state of emergency until additional funds are made available at the start of the new fiscal year beginning on July 1, 2017. It authorizes $200,000 of emergency funds and requests that the State Emergency Council, made up of state and legislative officials, provide the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management additional resources as needed.
