50 Firefighting Facts – Future Firefighters

Firefighting is a profession built on courage, skill, and a deep sense of community service. While we often see firefighters in action, there’s a world of history, technology, and fascinating details that many people don’t know. Here are 50 facts that might just surprise you.

The History & Evolution of Firefighting

The first organized firefighting force was established in ancient Rome by Emperor Augustus around 6 A.D. They were called the “Vigiles.”
The Great Fire of London in 1666, which destroyed much of the city, led to the development of the first fire insurance companies.
Benjamin Franklin founded the first volunteer fire company in the American colonies in 1736, known as the Union Fire Company in Philadelphia.
The iconic fire hydrant was patented in 1871, but the inventor’s name is lost to history because the patent office was destroyed in a fire.
Early fire alarms were often large bells or drums rung by a designated lookout.
Firefighting helmets were traditionally made of leather and have evolved to be made of heat-resistant, high-tech materials.
The first fire pole was invented in 1878 at a Chicago firehouse to help firefighters get downstairs faster than using the stairs.
The term “fire engine” originally referred to a horse-drawn pump, not a motorized vehicle.
The “dalmatian dog” became a firehouse mascot because they were good at running alongside horse-drawn carriages and calming the horses.
The first female firefighter in the United States was Molly Williams, a former slave who worked with the Oceanus Engine Company No. 11 in New York City in the early 19th century.

The Gear & Technology

A firefighter’s protective gear, known as turnout gear or bunker gear, can weigh over 50 pounds.
The gear is made of multiple layers of fire-resistant materials, including Kevlar and Nomex.
The self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) mask allows firefighters to breathe in smoke-filled environments, and the air cylinder typically lasts for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Modern fire trucks are equipped with GPS, thermal imaging cameras, and advanced communication systems.
The “Jaws of Life” is the brand name for a hydraulic rescue tool used to extricate people from vehicles after a collision.
Fire hoses come in various sizes, with the largest capable of pumping hundreds or even thousands of gallons of water per minute.
Firehouses often have a “decontamination” area to help clean equipment and firefighters of toxic substances after a fire.
Many fire departments use drones to get an aerial view of a fire and assess the situation before sending in crews.
Fire extinguishers are classified by the type of fire they are designed to put out: Class A (ordinary combustibles), B (flammable liquids), C (electrical), and D (combustible metals).
The “PASS device” (Personal Alert Safety System) is a small alarm attached to a firefighter’s gear that goes off if they are motionless for a certain period, helping locate them in a fire.

The Job & The Dangers

Firefighting is not just about putting out fires; it involves a wide range of responsibilities, including medical calls, car accidents, hazardous material spills, and technical rescues.
The most common call for most fire departments is not a fire, but an emergency medical service (EMS) call.
Firefighters are at a higher risk of developing certain cancers due to their exposure to toxic smoke and materials.
A firefighter’s heart rate can spike to over 170 beats per minute while fighting a fire.
The air inside a burning building can reach temperatures of over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Firefighters often work 24-hour shifts, followed by 48 or 72 hours off.
The term “mayday” is a universal distress signal used by firefighters when they are in immediate danger or lost.
Firefighters often practice “ventilation,” which is the process of creating an opening in a roof or wall to release heat and smoke from a building.
A “backdraft” is an explosive event caused by the sudden introduction of oxygen to a fire that is starved for air.
The “stop, drop, and roll” technique is a basic fire safety tip taught to children to extinguish flames on their clothing.

Beyond the Flames

Many fire departments have “CISM” (Critical Incident Stress Management) teams to help firefighters cope with the psychological trauma of their job.
The “brotherhood” or “sisterhood” among firefighters is a real and important part of the culture, built on trust and reliance.
The firehouse “kitchen table” is often considered the heart of the station, where firefighters eat together and talk.
The “National Firefighter Memorial” in Maryland honors firefighters who have died in the line of duty.
The “International Firefighters’ Day” is celebrated annually on May 4th.
Many fire departments have a “Fire Prevention” division that focuses on educating the public and conducting building inspections.
The “fire triangle” is a model for understanding fires, composed of three elements: heat, fuel, and oxygen.
The “E” on some fire trucks stands for “Engine,” which is a truck with a pump, while a “Truck” or “Ladder” company has a large ladder and other rescue equipment.
The average career span for a firefighter is around 25 to 30 years.
Many fire departments rely on volunteer firefighters, especially in rural and suburban areas.

Unique & Miscellaneous Facts

The largest fire department in the world is the Tokyo Fire Department, with over 18,000 employees.
Fire departments often have their own unique patches and logos, which are a source of pride for the members.
The “firefighter lift” is a technique used to carry an unconscious person to safety.
The color of a fire hydrant’s top can indicate the flow rate of water it can provide.
In some countries, firefighters use foam to put out certain types of fires, as it is more effective than water in specific situations.
The term “fire bug” is a slang term for an arsonist.
The “Firefighter’s Prayer” is a well-known poem and prayer that asks for strength and safety.
A “smoke diver” is a firefighter who specializes in working in extremely low-visibility conditions.
The “buddy system” is a critical safety practice where firefighters always work in pairs.
Firefighting is consistently ranked as one of the most trusted professions in the world.

From ancient Rome to modern technology, the world of firefighting is full of incredible stories and surprising details. These 50 facts offer just a glimpse into the history, the challenges, and the unwavering commitment of the people who rush in when others are running out.