Smokey Bear still staying on message after 75 years

Only you can prevent wildfires. Smokey Bear has been saying that now for more than three quarters of a century.

“The message hasn’t changed,” said Lisa Sherman, President & CEO of the Ad Council. “We have updated it over the years. Still, 9 out of 10 wildfires are caused by people in our country. So, it’s very important that people remember their personal responsibility.”

The U.S. Forest Service is sticking with the message.

“We’re so incredibly proud of this campaign,” said Sherman. “It’s the longest running public service campaign in history. I think that’s a testament to a partnership that’s been going for all of the 75 years that Smokey has existed.”

Smokey is now active on social media.

“For a 75-year-old bear, Smokey is quite tech savvy and has been an early adopter,” said Sherman. “He wants to reach his audiences with his message wherever they are. We know these days that people are living on social media, whether its Instagram or Facebook, Twitter or Youtube.”

You can also join the conversation by using #OnlyYou and #SmokeyBear75, no matter the medium.