Born on August 9, 1944 Smokey Bear was envisioned by the U.S. Forest Service as a mascot for their campaign to prevent forest fires. His famous slogan; "Only You can Prevent Wildfires."

The interesting thing that many people don't know is a bear named Smokey actually lived! In 1950 a wildfire in the Lincoln National Forest of New Mexico left a bear cub badly burned. Discovered by the responding firefighters, they named him Smokey for his bravery and determination to survive.

The West Bradford Fire Company proudly displays Smokey Bear on the back of Brush 39, the 1985 Jeep CJ-7, seen below. During the 1970s Nancy Amoriello, wife to then assistant chief Larry Amoriello, painted the design on the current brush units. During fire prevention activities such as school visitations and the annual open house, Smokey Bear is a big hit among participants.

The West Bradford volunteers would like to remind the community to be aware of their surroundings while performing legal burning activities. For more information on West Bradford Township burning ordnances please contact the township fire marshal (610-269-4174).