The Georgia Forestry Commission’s fleet of firefighting aircraft, ground equipment, pilots and operators will be on hand at theatres throughout the state on Saturday, July 19 for the new movie”Planes: Fire and Rescue.” Smokey Bear will also be making appearances at select locations,alongside GFC rangers and personnel who protect Georgia from wildfire and provide a variety of services to forest landowners and residents.
“We’re excited to share the skills of our real-life firefighting heroes with audiences in Georgia through the ‘Planes: Fire & Rescue’ movie,” said Frank Sorrells, Chief of Protection for the Georgia Forestry Commission. “Our pilots and equipment operators may not look like the characters in the movie, but their mission is the same – to protect people and property from the ravages of wildfire.”
Sorrells said on average, more than 40,000 acres of forestland are lost annually to wildfire in Georgia. The number one cause of wildfire is escaped debris burning, which is why burn permits must be obtained whenever someone intends to burn hand or machine-piled debris.
“Even when summer rains are keeping things moist, just one spark from a leaf pile, campfire or even overheated lawn equipment can cause a wildfire,” said Sorrells. “It’s important that everyone using fire outside keeps safety top of mind, with water and tools on hand to contain a fire that’s getting out of control and a cell phone to call for assistance,” he said.
Walt Disney Studios’ “Planes: Fire and Rescue” tells the animated story of a group of brave firefighters who battle a massive wildfire in a historic national park. Smokey Bear will be on hand at select Georgia theatres to greet movie-goers and share wildfire prevention tips at July 19 showings.
Information about steps homeowners can take to protect themselves and their property from wildfire will also be provided by the GFC.
For a list of theatres showcasing GFC firefighting equipment, scheduled appearances by Smokey Bear, and services of the Georgia Forestry Commission, visit GaTrees.org.
Related: Free Disney Planes Fire and Rescue Coloring Pages and Activity Sheets
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