History of Fire Police.
The concept of 'Fire Police' has existed in the international arena for more than 150 years. Wikipedia notes that New Jersey State code has supported Fire Police in their duties since as early as the 1850s.
Fire Police have existed in various forms for nearly as long as organised firefighting services in New Zealand.
The earliest record of Fire Police activity in NZ we are aware of is in the mid 1930s, in Auckland. After a substantial fire in the Central Business District, Firefighting resources were stretched and the Police were not available in sufficient strength to act against major looting of evacuated buildings. The Chief of the Fire Brigades was forced to call in Naval Personnel from Devonport who arrived with Bayonets Fixed.
Shortly thereafter a Fire Police Unit was formed in Auckland, mainly utilising former Firefighters and other volunteers. They were tasked to assist with Scene Security and Crowd Safety at major incidents.
The concept of Fire Police exists in many parts of the world. Brigades in the United States and in Europe operate Fire Police in various ways. Their existance seems to depend very much on local Fire Service administration and also relates to the availability, and efficiency, of the local Constabulary.
We are interested in hearing about the history of other Fire Police organisations in New Zealand. Please refer to 'Contact Us' if you have interesting history to share.