Smokey The Bear   reminds us that “ONLY YOU CAN PREVENT WILD FIRES!”

THE HISTORY OF SMOKEY THE BEAR

Smokey the Bear, an enduring symbol of wildfire prevention, has a rich history dating back to World War II. In the early 1940s, as the United States faced the threat of wartime fires, the Forest Service sought ways to educate the public about forest fire dangers. The urgency to protect timber resources, crucial for war efforts, led to the creation of a public service campaign. Initially, various characters were used, including Bambi, borrowed from Disney. However, it became evident that a unique and memorable mascot was necessary.

In 1944, the Forest Service, in collaboration with the Ad Council and the Wartime Advertising Council, introduced Smokey the Bear. The first Smokey poster, created by artist Albert Staehle, depicted the bear pouring a bucket of water on a campfire with the message, “Smokey says – Care will prevent 9 out of 10 forest fires!” This image marked the beginning of Smokey’s mission to raise awareness about forest fires.

Smokey’s persona evolved over the years. In 1950, a real-life bear cub, rescued from a wildfire in New Mexico’s Capitan Mountains, became the living embodiment of Smokey. Named after the mascot, the cub, with burned paws, garnered national attention and was relocated to the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. The living Smokey became a symbol of hope and the importance of fire prevention, enhancing the campaign’s impact.

Smokey’s message, “Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires,” introduced in 1947, became iconic. In 2001, it was updated to “Only You Can Prevent Wildfires” to encompass all types of wildland fires. Smokey’s campaign has effectively educated generations about fire safety, emphasizing personal responsibility in preventing wildfires.

Today, Smokey the Bear remains a beloved figure, recognized for his steadfast commitment to protecting forests. His image continues to evolve with changing media, but his core message of fire prevention and responsible behavior in the wilderness endures, making him a timeless advocate for conservation.

Be cautious and safe out there!

Lenny Lensworth Frieling

Shared Knowledge Is Power!

Leonard Frieling Pen Of Justice

• Multi-published and syndicated blogger and author.
• University lectures at University. of Colorado, Boulder, Denver University Law School, Univ. of New Mexico, Las Vegas NM, and many other schools at all levels. Numerous lectures for the NORML Legal Committee
• Former Judge
• Media work, including episodes of Fox’s Power of Attorney, well in excess of many hundreds media interviews, appearances, articles, and podcasts, including co-hosting Time For Hemp for two years.
• Life Member, NORML Legal Committee, Distinguished Counsel Circle.
• Photographer of the Year, AboutBoulder 2023
• First Chair and Originator of the Colorado Bar Association’s Cannabis Law Committee, a National first.
• Previous Chair, Boulder Criminal Defense Bar (8 years)
• Twice chair Executive Counsel, Colorado Bar Association Criminal Law Section
• Life Member, Colorado Criminal Defense Bar
• Board Member Emeritus, Colorado NORML, and prior chair during legalization, as well as pre and post legalization
• Chair, Colorado NORML, 7 years including during the successful effort to legalize recreational pot in Colorado
• Senior Counsel Emeritus to the Boulder Law firm Dolan + Zimmerman LLP : (720)-610-0951
• Board member, Author, and Editor for Criminal Law Articles for the Colorado Lawyer, primary publication of the Colorado Bar Assoc. 7 Years, in addition to having 2 Colorado Lawyer cover photos, and numerous articles for the Colorado Lawyer monthly publication.
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