The first fire department was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1736 by one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, Benjamin Franklin. He is also known as the “Father of our Fire Service.” Franklin helped create a union that was made to save lives.

In the late 1800s, firefighters used a hand pump fire engine. It was attached to an early model fire truck and pulled by hand. The fire engines had long parallel bars that ran on both sides of the engine that would operate the pump. The bars would suck water out of the center of a tub then be forced into a pressure chamber. The air in the pressure chamber would allow the water to be sprayed out of the hose. This was very helpful for putting out fires and saved many lives.

In Europe, insurance companies supported local fire brigades. Buildings marked with a metal badge were protected by the insurance companies.There were many different insurance companies though, so there was competition between the local fire departments to prove which was the best.

By the 21st century, many advancements like the diesel-driven engine with dual-stage pumps were able to work way better than older machines like the old steam pumper fire engine. The diesel engine is able to deliver over 1,500 gallons of water per minute. This invention made it easier to stop fires quicker, so people were able to leave a burning building faster.

Firefighters are heroes that are willing to save others even if it means them getting hurt. They are brave and strong. Thanks to the help of Franklin, we were able to achieve a society that has an emergency service that can come to the rescue and save us.