The Purpose of the Manchester Fire Brigade
- According to the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service website, over 2,400 people work for the Manchester Fire Brigade, making it the second largest fire service in England. In 2009, the Fire Brigade averaged a seven-minute response time. The Fire Brigade is responsible for over 496 square miles, operating out of 41 fire stations within Greater Manchester.
- The Manchester Fire Brigade has served during the Manchester airport tragedy of 1985 and the Manchester bombing in 1996. During the 1970s, the Fire Brigade expanded and new state-of-the-art fire stations were constructed. As of 2010, the brigade operates its own Greater Manchester Fire Service Museum, and is serving the citizens of Manchester through initiatives to create a safer community.
- The Manchester Fire Brigade does not only attend to house fires. It also assists in accidents on the road or rail, and promotes safety within the community by performing home fire risk assessments and building inspections. The brigade plays a role in defending against acts of terrorism. An initiative called Firefly assists troubled youth by teaching the youth life skills.