Houston Fire Department
Houston Fire Department
The Houston Fire Department is one of the largest municipal fire departments in the United States. Founded in 1838, the department has been an important part of Houston's history and future. Throughout its storied history, the organization has provided volunteer firefighting services to the city for 57 years. However, in the year 1895, the city made the switch to a fully paid, professional department. In the meantime, the Houston Fire Department has gone through a few notable changes. Houston Fire Department
One of the more interesting achievements of the fire department is the creation of a new, modern fire station that has achieved LEED Silver certification. This aesthetically pleasing 15,500-square-foot facility features a modern kitchen, indoor/outdoor fitness center, locker rooms, and private Captain and Lieutenant quarters.
Although the Houston Fire Department has been around for almost 200 years, it is only in recent years that the organization has expanded and upgraded its facilities. This is due in part to the city's booming commercial and residential growth. Moreover, the City of Houston has a significant amount of flooding. Its most frequent flood hazard is riverine flooding, and it has experienced significant property damage as a result. Because of proper maintenance of its levees, the chance of a major levee failure is relatively low.
The Houston Fire Department is currently looking for new hires. They are offering incentive pay for a fast-track class as well as a pay raise of 18 percent. Additionally, the department has its own SWAT team that provides training on active attack incidents. Also, the department has several vacancies in its administrative and support staff. If you have any questions about the department, feel free to contact the office at (713) 834-8001.
The city of Houston has a number of landmarks to its credit. For example, the "Old 7's" - the oldest fire station in the city - has been designated as a historic site on the Texas Historic Landmark list. Another is the "Wall of Honor", a bronze statue that pays tribute to the city's firefighters.
There are many other notable landmarks in and around the city. One of the most impressive is the fire department's newest headquarters, located at 519 San Jacinto Avenue. Among other things, this new building is the largest in the city and houses five bays for fire apparatus. Other impressive amenities include an indoor/outdoor fitness center, a modern kitchen, and a lounge. To round out this new building's amenities, the Fire Station Design Manual is updated.
As of today, the Houston Fire Department has its sights set on becoming the most innovative and efficient public safety provider in the world. Using a combination of high-tech equipment and innovative techniques, the department strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for the citizens of Houston. The department will also continue its tradition of providing fire protection and emergency medical services.