Smokey Bear: About Wildfires
What is a Wildfire?
Wildfires are any unplanned fires that burn in forests and other wildlands, such as shrub or grass communities. They’re a powerful natural force we must fully understand, and respect, in order to best help control. Nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by humans and could have been prevented.
Benefits of Fire
Not all fires, or their effects, are bad for the environment.
Fire in Nature
How fire can help
Prescribed Fires
When fire is necessary
Fire Science
Understanding the science behind wildland fires.
Elements of Fire
Understand how fire works
Fighting Wildfires
Learn about the frontline and tools for fighting wildfires.
The Front Line
See who fights wildfires
Tools of the Trade
Learn what tool are used to put out wildfires
Created in 1944, the Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign is the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history, educating generations of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires.
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What is a Wildfire?
Wildfires are any unplanned fires that burn in forests and other wildlands, such as shrub or grass communities. They’re a powerful natural force we must fully understand, and respect, in order to best help control. Nearly nine out of 10 wildfires nationwide are caused by humans and could have been prevented.
Benefits of Fire
Not all fires, or their effects, are bad for the environment.
Fire in Nature
How fire can help
Prescribed Fires
When fire is necessary
Fire Science
Understanding the science behind wildland fires.
Elements of Fire
Understand how fire works
Fighting Wildfires
Learn about the frontline and tools for fighting wildfires.
The Front Line
See who fights wildfires
Tools of the Trade
Learn what tool are used to put out wildfires
Created in 1944, the Smokey Bear Wildfire Prevention campaign is the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history, educating generations of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires.
