HOW SMOKEY BEAR CAME INTO EXISTENCE
Smokey Bear was created in 1944 by the Ad Council, the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Association of State Foresters, in partnership with creative agency Foote, Cone & Belding. He would serve as the icon for America’s longest-running public service announcement campaign in U.S. history.
Smokey Bear has been an American symbol easily recognized by his shovel, blue jeans and ranger hat, and his career began in 1944 to educate the public (especially children) about the dangers of wildfires and the importance of preventing them.
His initial slogan was "Smokey Says - Care Will Prevent 9 Out of 10 Forest Fires." In 1947, his new famous catchphrase became ”Only you can prevent forest fires,” which later was changed in 2000 to "Only you can prevent Wildfires” that also included grasslands, rangelands, woodlands, and of course, forest fires. Smokey Bear’s message remains relevant today, as nearly nine out of ten wildfires nationwide are caused by humans and can be prevented.
HOW THE BEAR BECAME THE SYMBOL
He was nursed back to health and initially named Hotfoot Teddy, but was later renamed Smokey, in honor of the character that was created years earlier. Many nationwide heard his little bear cub's story and were inspired by his recovery and well-being. He would shortly be sent off and given a home at Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington D.C. where he lived for 26 years, helping to serve as an ambassador for wildfire prevention until his passing on November 9, 1976.
SMOKEY BEAR'S IMPACT THROUGH THE YEARS
Smokey's impact on fire prevention and conservation has been significant. Over the years he's evolved to adapt to society and environmental challenges. While his appearance and message have been updated, the core principles for fire prevention and environmental stewardship remain central to his identity.
Smokey Bear's enduring presence resonates with people of all ages, emphasizing our collective responsibility in protecting our forests and natural habitats. Through his powerful message, he continues to make a lasting impact on communities across the U.S. and beyond, serving as a timeless symbol of wildfire prevention and environmental conservation.
What's In a Name:Smokey the Bear or Smokey Bear? Technically is Smokey Bear; however, Steve Nelson and Jack Rollins wrote a song to promote Smokey. To maintain the rhythm of the song "the" was added. This carried over to become popular in speech and print for at least one encyclopedia referred to him as Smokey the Bear and a Little Golden Books series was called "Smokey the Bear." Despite this, his official name never changed. (Interesting Fact)
WHAT CAN WE DO TO PREVENT WILDFIRES?
- Select a safe location for any fires you set while being aware of conditions in the area. Create a perimeter around the fire to keep a safe distance from your camping area, and make sure your completely put your fire out using water, dirt, or sand. Make sure all embers are out and the area is cool. Per the Smokey Bear campaign: “If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.”
- When burning backyard debris, be aware of the conditions in your area such as wind or if the vegetation is too dry. Do not burn plastics, tires, or household trash. Check above and around the area you will be using to stay clear of power lines, vehicles, buildings and other items that could be damaged by fire. Keep your burn pile small and manageable, and when finished, completely drown the fire.
- When operating a vehicle, ensure chains are properly secured as well as other potential fire starting items. Also use care when using lawn mowers. Sparks from lawn mowers and power equipment are capable of starting wildfires.
FIVE OF THE DEADLIEST FIRES IN AMERICA
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