The Heroes of FDNY!

While the firefighters of New York may not get to use firefighting helicopters often, that doesn't mean that they aren't one of the premier firefighting corps in America. Everyone knows the stories of their heroism during 9/11, but people don't understand that kind of bravery is the everyday norm for these men and women.

History of the New York Fire Department

Would you be surprised to know that there are fire ordinances dating back to 1648 in New York? Well, it's true! During this time in history the firefighters were known as "prowlers" and would walk the streets all night on the lookout for fires. Around 1658 bucket brigades were formed and refined the firefighting practices in New York. Actual fire brigades didn't come along until 1731 when the fire department acquired two hand drawn pumpers from London. These primitive machines were actually the first fire engines. It was during the Revolutionary War that the New York fire brigades were reorganized and give the name Fire Department of the City of New York. Today the FDNY is responsible for keeping an area of 320 square miles protected from fire. To learn more about the history of the FDNY click here!

The New York City Fire Museum

To learn more about the history and traditions in New York, you must visit the New York City Fire Museum. Here you can see art and artifacts dating back to the 18th century. Excitingly, the fire museum is actually located in a renovated fire station from 1904. Artifacts like horse drawn carriages and hand pump fire engines can be examined inside the museum. For more info on the New York City Fire Museum, click here!

The Fire Department Today

Today the FDNY is responsible for more than 8,000,000 citizens' safety. These citizens live in an area that is nearly 320 square miles. With the largest municipal fire fighting department in the United States, the FDNY employs more than 11,000 Fire Officers and fire fighters. Other integral parts of the department team are the EMTs, Paramedics, and Supervisors who keep things safe and organized. The FDNY is also aided by more than 1,200 volunteers.

A Look Back at 9/11

Many have heard of the bravery and sacrifice of all response personnel in New York City during the September 11 terrorist attacks. They understand that there was loss, but the extent of that loss is very often vastly misunderstood. While responding to the horrible disaster at the World Trade Center, 2 paramedics, a fire marshal, and a chaplain courageously lost their lives. Along with these heroes, 23 fire chiefs, 22 captains, 46 lieutenants, and 252 fire fighters perished. These men and women gave the ultimate sacrifice and should never, ever be forgotten.