Smokey was created in 1944 when humans were creating unwanted and unplanned forest fires, like today. Smokey says 9 out of ten fires are preventable.
SAN DIEGO — As we head into some of our hottest and driest months, that are known to be some of our busiest and most devastating for wildfires, CBS 8 would like to wish Smokey Bear a Happy 80th Birthday.
The forest mascot has educated generations and provided decades of wildfire prevention tips.
And although it’s hard to quantify, Smokey’s message has no doubt saved lives, homes and land. For 80 years now his message has been, “Only you can prevent wildfires.”
“You still have adults that remember his message and are teaching it to their kids and grandkids, such a legacy he has,” Amanda Scott said, who is the National Wildfire Prevention Program Manager.
Smokey was created in 1944 during World War II to …