Happy 60th birthday to Sparky the fire dog!

Meet Sparky, the adorable Dalmation spokesdog for The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA,) the leading advocate for fire safety. Since his debut in 1951, millions of people have learned about fire safety through Sparky’s extensive educational programs.

NFPA teamed up with Charlesbridge Publishing and Emmy-award winning children’s author Don Hoffman for a brand new Sparky adventure just in time for Fire Prevention Week, October 9-15. Illustrator Todd Dakins’ charming art adds a whimsical appeal for young readers.

Follow Sparky and his newly-deputized junior fire inspectors, Roger Rhino, Ellie Elephant, and Iggy Iguana as as they inspect the animal neighborhood homes looking for fire dangers. By story’s end, ten fire safety tips have been shared. Young readers will learn the importance of smoke alarms, fireplace and candle safety, cooking safety, safe storage of lighters and matches, BBQ grill safety, family escape plans, visible house numbers, and the 911 emergency phone number. 

After reading this book, grab a young child and head over to Sparky’s very own website full of fun activities, games, video clips, animated shorts, and additional safety tips.