The first San Rafael firefighters were citizens who responded to fires as volunteers - teachers, carpenters, plumbers, painters, blacksmiths and merchants.

As the Fire Department grew, firefighters began to focus on fire prevention, and the invention of smoke detectors, along with building codes, dramatically reduced the number of fires, both in San Rafael and around the country. 

Today, the SRFD is a well-respected organization with a strong commitment to public safety. The department has a fleet of modern equipment and a state-of-the-art training facility.

The SRFD also has a strong commitment to wildfire prevention, and it works closely with the community to educate residents about fire safety.

The company settled on the name, “San Rafael Hose, Hook and Ladder Company” and proudly proclaimed the motto “We are always ready when you want us!” 

They were equipped with basic tools and equipment, and they relied on their courage and determination to save lives and property. The company’s first piece of equipment was a four wheeled hose cart which was pulled by hand. The men would literally run to the fire pulling the hose cart behind them! 

By the 1890’s, the Company had 90 volunteer members, two hand pulled hose carts, two hose carriages and one hook and ladder wagon. In 1913, the Department entered the modern era when it purchased its first motorized chain driven apparatus- a Pope chemical wagon. 

Our firefighters practice Community Fire Servicing, building collaborative relationships with our community before an emergency strikes.