ST. GEORGE — The Smokey Bear sign that was reported missing Sunday from outside the Central Fire Department in Washington County has been located.
Chief Steve Haluska told St. George News on Tuesday that the sign was taken, but he said it was unclear whether the bear was stolen or taken for maintenance without informing the Fire Department. If the sign was stolen, he added, whoever took it will be fined, although the incident has not yet been reported to police. Haluska contacted St. George News on Wednesday to say the sign had been located.
The sign is used to inform people of the current fire conditions. Fire danger in the area is currently “moderate,” which is typical for the middle of winter, Haluska said. The absence of the bear does not take away from the importance of fire conditions, but the department is missing it, he said.
“It’s a landmark for the fire station,” he said, adding that its removal is a mystery to him. “Normally they call ahead of time and let me know, but I haven’t heard anything.”
The fire department is waiting for information about whether the sign was removed for repairs or not. Anyone with information about its whereabouts is asked to call the Central Fire Department at 435-574-2908.
Updated Jan. 6 at 10:10 to include additional information from Haluska.
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