Sparky the Fire Dog, the official mascot of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), celebrates his 70th birthday this month, reflecting on a legacy and impact that spans the generations: Kids know and love him, parents grew up with him and grandparents remember his messages of fire safety.
“For seven decades, Sparky has worked hard to make communities safer from fire. Since 1951, he has partnered with fire professionals, teachers, civic organizations, corporations and the media to deliver invaluable fire and life safety educational messages to children and adults alike,” said Lorraine Carli, vice president of Outreach and Advocacy at NFPA.
Over the years, the iconic fire dog has used a multitude of educational techniques, including books, tip sheets, online resources, videos, apps and NFPA’s national public safety campaign, Fire Prevention Week, to share important safety messages like “Stop, drop and roll,” “Get out, stay out,” “Dial 9-1-1” and “Know two ways out.”