Someone has kidnapped the most famous bear in America, and police are asking for the public’s help in getting him back safe and sound.
A large sign depicting Smokey the Bear — known for decades as the mascot of preventing forest fires — was kidnapped from right in front of a Pennsylvania fire station.
Per UPI, the large, wooden Smokey statue sat in front of the Bear Creek Township Volunteer Fire Rescue. It was stolen while the firefighters were on a call.
Smokey’s sign features his slogan: “Remember! Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires.”
The thieves apparently sawed off the feet of the Smokey sign, removing it from its base.
The Pennsylvania police are looking for any information leading to the whereabouts of Smokey. If you or someone you know has information, you are encouraged to contact Pennsylvania police.
Or, simply Smokey to the fire station, no questions asked.
When Did Smokey the Bear First Appear in America?
Smokey Bear first showed up in America on August 9, 1944, when the U.S. Forest Service authorized the creation of a character for its forest fire prevention campaign.
On October 10, 1944, the first Smokey the Bear poster was drawn by artist Albert Staehle.
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