Smokey Bear Celebrates 80th Birthday at Mont Alto State Park

( WPHL )– The iconic Smokey Bear got to celebrate his 80th birthday with a special party at the Mont Alto State Park in Franklin County, PA.

Smokey Bear who is used as a wildfire prevention spokesperson for the U.S. Forest Service in the Wildfire Prevention Campaign was “born” on August 9, 1944.

Since his start day or “birthday” the USDA Forest Service and Ad Council have developed to be the symbol for forest fire prevention.

“Today we celebrate Smokey Bear and the impact his message has had in protecting our forests for 80 years,” Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said.

“The example Smokey has set forth is one that challenges us all to be responsible stewards of our forests, which is a message we must continue to push so that future generations can have access to the benefits our forests provide.”

Smokey was initially brought to life by Artist Albert Staehle pouring a bucket of water on a campfire and saying, “Care will prevent 9 out of 10 fires.” In 1947 his slogan became the familiar “Only YOU can prevent forest fires!”

“Smokey’s message has been invaluable to the firefighters in Pennsylvania and across the nation who tirelessly battle wildfires,” State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook said.

“We are proud to celebrate Smokey’s timeless message of responsibility. Prevention will always be the most effective tool we have at our disposal to fight wildfires.”

Pennsylvania residents are encouraged to understand the factors that increase the risk of wildfires:

• An available fuel source, such as dried grass or leaves;
• Dry conditions, including low relative humidity;
• An ignition source to start the fire, such as sparks from an automobile, machine exhaust, or burning trash.

“Most wildfires are preventable, and we are here today to remind Pennsylvanians to be careful with fire, especially debris burning, the number one cause of wildfires in the Commonwealth,”,” State Forester Seth Cassell said.

“We ask that Pennsylvanians adhere to Smokey Bear’s wildfire prevention message and take a mindful approach to burning trash, building campfires, and in situations where there is a risk of unwanted burning.”

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