Fire Service History & Traditions

• Benjamin Franklin is credited with forming the nation's first fire department in 1736
  
• Firefighting began as a volunteer organization, and today roughly 70% of America's firefighters are volunteer.
• Seating positions in a fire truck or "rig" are usually based on a firefighter's assignment, with the commanding officer riding in the front passenger's seat.
• Dalmatians became the symbol of the fire service during the days of horse-drawn engines due to their abilities as stable dogs.