An iconic safety symbol will be celebrating a milestone birthday over the weekend.

Smokey Bear, best known for his catch phrase, “Only you can prevent wildfires” will be turning 70-years-old.

Smokey has been around since 1944 teaching kids and adults about the difference they can make in preventing wildfires.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says on average 1400 fires are started in Minnesota per year, burning about 31,000 acres. The DNR says about 98 percent of them are started by people and can be prevented.

Smokey’s birthday will be celebrated on Saturday.

Smokey Bear’s Tips for Fire Safety

1. Don’t play with matches.
2. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure it is cold to the touch before leaving.
3. Use grills, camp stoves and lanterns away from materials that can catch fire.
4. Be careful with fireworks. Put used fireworks in a bucket of water.
5. make sure outdoor vehicles and equipment are in good working order. Sparks from vehicles and equipment can start fires.
6. Watch the weather. Hot, dry, windy weather can increase chances of wildfire.
7. Put out cigarettes in a safe place.
8. People who see a wildfire, should call 9-1-1 immediately.