COLUMBUS — The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has compiled multiple educational resources for Ohio teachers to download and use next week in time for National Fire Prevention Week, observed this year from Oct. 4-10.

Ohio teachers are encouraged to visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov/plt-ohioforests for educational resources to help engage students in grades 1-8. Resources focus on the topics of biodiversity, clean air, improved soil and water, forest health, recreational opportunities, renewable resources and sustainable forests. Materials include fun and detailed educational activities to use in the classroom, and by clicking on the Ohio Correlations button, teachers can read how activities correlate with Ohio’s state education standards.

Elementary teachers will find several educational materials for their younger students, including a comic book telling the story of Smokey Bear, coloring pages and other fun activities. A highlight is the Smokey Bear video, which helps teach kids about outdoor fire safety in an engaging way. Developed through a wildfire prevention grant from the USDA Forest Service, the four-minute video was produced in Ohio through a cooperative effort between ODNR and the Columbus College of Art and Design.

These materials are available at forestry.ohiodnr.gov/smokeybear.

The ODNR Division of Forestry works to promote the wise use and sustainable management of Ohio’s public and private woodlands. To learn more about Ohio’s woodlands, visit forestry.ohiodnr.gov.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.