Firefighter
Japanese Name:
消防士
Romaji Name:
shouboushi
Description
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A firefighter (shōbōshi in Japanese) is a person trained to put out fires, rescue people, and respond to emergencies. Firefighters often work in teams, using special equipment such as hoses, ladders, and protective clothing. Their job also includes preventing fires, educating the public about safety, and helping during natural disasters.
History
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Ancient Beginnings:
Organized fire-fighting can be traced back to Ancient Rome. Around 24 BCE, Emperor Augustus created a group called the Vigiles, who acted as both firefighters and night watchmen.
Middle Ages to Early Modern Era:
In medieval Europe, fire prevention was mostly informal. However, after major urban fires—such as the Great Fire of London in 1666—more organized fire brigades began to form. These were often funded by insurance companies.
Modern Professionalization:
In the 18th and 19th centuries, cities around the world began to establish publicly funded fire departments. The first fully paid fire department in the United States was created in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1853.
Today:
Firefighters undergo extensive training and use advanced equipment. Their role has expanded beyond fighting fires to include emergency medical services (EMS), disaster response, and public safety education. Firefighting is considered both a critical and heroic profession around the world.