Ember, The FireSmart Fox

Why Ember?

Multiple studies have shown that visual aids are very useful in absorbing information, and while generations of Canadians are familiar with Smokey Bear (created by the U.S. Forest Service in 1944), there were several reasons for a changing of the guard. The most obvious difference is in appearance: the way Ember was drawn represents new approaches to animated characters and how they appeal to modern audiences of all ages.

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Another factor is authenticity: we felt it was time for Canada to have its own voice regarding wildfire preparedness; everything about Ember was conceived, designed, and developed by Canadians for Canadians. Both of these considerations meant essential improvements in form and function alike, increasing FireSmart BC’s effectiveness at building understanding on how to protect lives and property from the threat of wildfire.

Perhaps most importantly, however, Ember articulates a much more sophisticated approach than the “Only YOU can prevent forest fires” mantra that was Smokey’s from 1947 until 2001 (when “forest fires” was changed to “wildfires”). That simple message and its invocation of individual responsibility were perfect for generating basic levels of awareness, but these days our knowledge of wildfire – how it spreads, the role it plays in nature, the heightened risks associated with the wildland-urban interface, etc. – is far more extensive. Decades of observation and study have taught us so much, not just about how to prevent wildfire, but also how to fight it, how to manage it with prescribed burning, as well as its cultural role within Indigenous communities. Not to mention how good habits and advance preparation are absolutely crucial to preserving lives and property.

On another level, FireSmart principles and practices place primary emphasis on cooperation – both within and between communities – as the cornerstone of wildfire mitigation and resiliency. Wildfire is inevitable, but if the right strategies are designed and implemented, fires can be managed in such a way as to limit their impacts in terms of damage, cost, and loss of life.


The Big Picture

See Ember in action

Ember’s Colouring Book (English & French)

In this colouring book, Ember visits people's homes to show them her favourite FireSmart tips. Great for ages 4-8, kids will learn the basics on how to keep their homes and neighbourhoods safe from wildfire. This colouring book comes both in English and French.

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Ember’s Story Video

Hear Ember's story, and see how she helps the people in Maple Grove stay FireSmart.

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FireSmart Kid’s Home Assessment

Designed with kids in mind, use this quick assessment with your children to see how at risk your home would be if there was a wildfire in your area.

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Ember Word Search Game

Master of Disaster and FireSmart BC teamed up to make this word search game featuring Ember.

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FireSmart Matching Game

Draw a line connecting each image on the left side of this page to the best-fitting FireSmart tip on the right side of this page!

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FireSmart BC Library Program

The FireSmart BC Library Program is the first children’s literacy program dedicated to wildfire resiliency! The FireSmart BC Library Program was designed to help children understand what it means to live with wildfires and the role they can play in mitigating the impacts of wildfires on their home and community.

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But wait, there’s more

Looking to use Ember in your educational or marketing materials? Use the Ember usage request form to apply for a package of official Ember poses and instructions.

Usage request form

She’s only just getting started.

Going forward, Ember’s job will be to put a friendly – but also alert and adaptable – face on FireSmart’s messages of preparedness and resilience.

She will be particularly effective when her likeness is used for toys, colouring books, and school curricula for children, but other merchandise also will appeal to older generations, reminding them of steps they can take to protect themselves and their neighbours. Ember will also begin making her way into FireSmart neighbourhoods and events throughout BC, connecting with local children to help get them excited about helping their families conduct FireSmart activities around the home.

Download press release

Request the Ember mascot suit

The Ember mascot suit is available for use at your local community FireSmart event if you are affiliated with a local government, First Nation or Indigenous community, or BCFSC member agency.

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Ember mascot suit

What’s the story behind the name?

In October 2020, FireSmart Canada held a contest to determine their new mascot’s name. Of more than 500 submissions from across the country, the winning entry came from Arlene S. of British Columbia, who is actually a FireSmart representative for her community. She explained her choice by noting that “it only takes an ember to start a fire. An ember can turn ... smouldering ground fire to a forest fire in moments.”

Contest winners
Ember Facing The Gutter