Firefighting History
The fast-moving Cocoanut Grove fire killed nearly 500 and changed fire safety and burn treatment as we know it
It’s not unusual for a firehouse to house a spirit or two
Learn how fire drills – a now-routine part of American life – emerged over the years as fire safety and prevention practices improved
A Netflix documentary about the deadly blaze balances themes of loss with courage and fortitude
When it comes to educating the public, nothing beats a catchy slogan
A six-year push for the day of appreciation, inspired by heroism and tragedy, culminated in the designation of Oct. 28 to honor first responders
These are challenging times to be a first responder; your support is welcome and appreciated
To those of us on the job, the helmet is a tradition that allows us to express our respect for those who have gone before
Detailing the incremental change related to family leave, laws, station design, grooming, gear and leadership opportunities
The Massachusetts city was primed for disaster, but strong command stopped the primary fire spread in hours
Detailing the evolution of heat detectors in the late-1800s to modern-day “smart” smoke detectors
Old Saybrook Fire Company No. 1 celebrated its centennial with a parade and memories
The conflagration claimed the lives of more than 1,500 people but still exists for many in the shadow of the Great Chicago Fire
Learn about arson dog training, programs, capabilities, years of service, and some famous arson dogs
From its wooden beginnings to modern ‘smart’ systems, the fire hydrant is a storied icon that represents the evolution of the fire service
Turning turn traumatic memories into hope and action to make a difference
Books about the catastrophic 9/11 attacks and the long return to normalcy are crucial to the historical record of those we lost and how we moved forward
Dalmatians are known for their physical nature and guarding instinct; they were first used to run alongside horses in the 1700s
Several factors overwhelmed fireground operations, resulting in numerous maydays and, ultimately, the death of two firefighters
Buffalo Firefighter Jonathan Croom and Lieutenant Charles McCarthy were remembered by firefighters, families and friends at the location of the 2009 tragedy
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation’s mobile exhibit brought the museum experience to the Allen County Fair
The Jaws of Life was first created in 1961 and are now indispensable tools for many fire departments
The Clinton Fire Department was also recognized by the Illinois Firefighters Association as the first meeting place for the organization 135 years ago
Reviewing historic fires enhances fireline safety by building context and familiarity with high-risk scenarios
The deadly Mann Gulch fire didn’t just scar the land, it also reshaped how wildland crews prepare for and battle wildfires
Reflecting on a 75-year-old tragedy that took the lives of 13 firefighters
What began as a simple solution to a practical problem has become a historical emblem of firefighting
The ceremony dates back to the days of horse-drawn equipment when members had to push the equipment into the bay
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