An 88-year-old Alakanuk woman died as a result of a fire that broke out in her home on Wednesday at 2:15 in the afternoon.

The initial reports into the fire say that the woman, 88-year-old Angela Smith of Alakanuk was trapped in her home as the fire engulfed the door to the outside. She suffered severe burns trying to escape the blaze. Algela was the only one living in the home at the time of the fire.

Angela was medevaced to Bethel for treatment of her burns. She passed away in Bethel at 10:30 pm Wednesday.

The State Fire Marshal traveled to Alakanuk to investigate the cause of the fire, the investigation is continuing.

2012 has been a severe year for residential fires, beating out 2010 and 2011. 16 of the 18 fire deaths recorded have been in homes. Most at risk in house fires are children and the elderly.

The Alaska Division of Fire and Life Safety urge the public to make sure that fire alarms are functioning and if battery operated have a fresh power source. Fire alarms provide an early warning, giving one additional time to escape a burning building. They also remind the public to make sure there are two exits from every room.

Alaska State Fire Marshal Kelly Nicolello adds, “Fire safe behavior can keep a fire from starting. Working smoke alarms, planning and practicing your fire escape plan and adding residential fire suppression sprinklers can ensure your family’s safety in case of fire.”