The issue: Smokey Bear's 64th

Our opinion: Icon's focus on wildlife remains important

Tired of the same old job? Are you looking forward to that retirement date? Imagine working every day, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. Seem exhausting? Not if you are Smokey Bear!

That is exactly what he has been doing since he first appeared in 1944 and this year as he celebrates his 64th birthday on Aug. 9, continuing his vigilance in reminding all, “Only you can prevent wildfires.”

Over all the years, and all the work that has been done, there is still more to do. Each year wildfires burn more acres, threaten and destroy hundreds of homes, and endanger the lives of the public and thousands of firefighters.

Important in recognizing Smokey’s contribution is understanding that his role has changed. Many will remember that Smokey once advised: “Only you can prevent forest fires.”

While the message was essentially about forest fires, it failed to let the public know the use of fire historically and today is an important management tool for the health of forests.

Johnny Stowe, S.C. Department of Natural Resources representative to the South Carolina Prescribed Fire Council, says prescribed fire as a land-management tool has deep and ancient roots in South Carolina’s heritage. But conducting prescribed burns is becoming increasingly challenging because of a variety of factors -- one of them the legacy of Smokey Bear.

“Smokey is one of the best-known icons in the United States,” Stowe said, “and while part of Smokey’s message always has been, is, and always will be wise -- that no one should carelessly or maliciously use fire under any circumstances -- Smokey’s legacy is that several generations of Americans view forest fires as universally destructive.”

The key word certain is “prescribed.” Fire used by professionals in woods management is not what Smokey aims to prevent. As Smokey turns 64, fire agencies will be using him to promote the importance of wildfire prevention throughout the year, targeting the summer recreation period, the spring burning period and the safe use of campfires and the homeowners’ responsibility for living in the Wildland Urban Interface.

After 64 years, Smokey remains an important messenger. If he can work so hare to prevent destructive wildfires, everyone can help him out.

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