A striking example of wartime-era public messaging, this Forest Service poster commands attention with its dramatic composition: a workman's hand, rendered in warm realistic tones, decisively extinguishes a match against a glowing golden background. The flame-styled lettering of 'PREVENT FOREST FIRES!' above reinforces the urgency with visual fire dancing atop each letter.

Produced by the U.S. Government Printing Office in the mid-1940s for both federal and state forest services, this poster represents the Cooperative Forest Fire Prevention Campaign launched during World War II, when timber was considered a strategic resource. The design predates or coincides with the introduction of Smokey Bear, making it a fascinating artifact from the formative period of American fire prevention messaging.

The bold graphic approach and memorable imagery reflect the sophisticated visual communication strategies developed during the war years. A compelling piece for collectors of vintage Americana, conservation history, or wartime home front ephemera.

Size: 20.0" x 14.25"

Condition: Very Good, Age-appropriate wear, fading and toning. Original fold lines present. Blemish to lower left of hand. Small diaganol crease under "H" of "Match". Circle drawn on backside of upper right corner, lightly visible on front. Light border wear. Please use the photo zoom feature to get a better understanding of overall condition. *Additional photos available upon request.