Smokey’s message is as important today as it was in 1944. Wildfires can destroy forests, homes, and wildlife habitats, but many are preventable with the right precautions. Remember, only YOU can prevent wildfires! 

Smokey’s Rules for Fire Safety

1. Always watch your campfire. Never leave a fire unattended, and always keep an eye on burning embers.
2. Completely extinguish fires. Pour water on your campfire until the coals are cool enough to touch. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave.
3. Never play with matches or lighters. Fires can start in seconds, so always handle fire sources with care.
4. Check local fire conditions. Before starting a fire outdoors, check if there are any fire restrictions or warnings in the area.
5. Be cautious when burning debris. Clear the area around your burn site, and never burn on windy days.
6. Don’t use fireworks in dry areas. Fireworks can easily ignite dry grass or trees, leading to dangerous wildfires.
7. Keep vehicles off dry grass. Hot exhaust pipes and engines can ignite dry vegetation, so always park on paved or dirt surfaces.
8. Properly dispose of cigarettes. Don’t toss cigarette butts or ashes on the ground, especially in dry or wooded areas.
9. Follow fire safety signs and regulations. Pay attention to posted warnings and always follow fire prevention rules when outdoors.
10. If you see a wildfire, report it. Call 911 or a local fire department immediately if you spot an unattended or out-of-control fire.

National Agricultural Library, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons