Smokey Bear Drops by Fargo Public Library [Video]

FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – Even at 80 years of age as the indelible public symbol of fire safety, Smokey Bear still looks good — and still captures the attention of children.

“The kids getting the idea that the responsibility is all theirs, is a really good message,” said Deputy Fire Marshal Brett Bergh.

“I loved Smokey when I was a little kid, and they still love him today.”

The event at the Fargo Public Library included a reading of Smokey’s backstory and an opportunity for the kids to take pictures with the loveable mascot. In addition, Bergh stuck around and fielded questions from the audience. He says that many of the inquiries from the children revolve around creatures besides themselves.

“This age range, they’re commonly worried about their pets,” he explained. “And I just reassure them that the pets almost always get out on their own, and if …