The term “fire buff” dates to the early 20th century, likely originating in New York City. In the days of horse-drawn fire engines, curious civilians, often wrapped in heavy “buffalo robes” during cold winters, would gather near fire scenes. These onlookers became known as “buffaloes,"eventually shortened to “buffs,” as noted in the book “Pictorial History of Firefighting” by Robert W. Masters
As firefighting modernized in the early 1900s, the fascination only grew. Many early buffs were amateur photographers, telegraph operators or neighborhood kids captivated by the action. Over time, “fire buffing” evolved into a respected subculture, with members documenting fire history, assisting departments and always maintaining a respectful distance at scenes.
Over the decades, fire buffing evolved into a unique subculture with passionate adherents preserving history, supporting firefighters and observing the fireground, ideally from a respectful distance.
Arthur Fiedler, the famous conductor of the Boston Pops, loved watching Boston firefighters in action. He would show up at big fires any time, day or night, just to see them work. The Boston Fire Department even made him an honorary captain.
Who are fire buffs today?
A fire buff is a non-firefighter who is deeply interested in fire service activities, culture, history and apparatus. Buffs are not thrill-seekers or wannabe responders — they are dedicated enthusiasts, often with specialized knowledge or volunteer involvement in one of the following:
- Emergency scene documentation
- Historical preservation
- Public education on fire safety
- Support roles during long-duration incidents
They may be amateur historians, photographers, radio enthusiasts or collectors of fire memorabilia. Many are former firefighters or those who dreamed of joining the service but took a different path in life.
What do fire buffs do?
Fire buffs spend their time in a variety of ways:
- Documenting history in real time: Photography and video are central to many fire buffs. Some have documented hundreds of incidents, building archives of response operations that become invaluable historical records.
- Operating support units: Fire buffs often run rehab or canteen units, bringing water, snacks and cooling equipment to long-duration fire scenes. This tradition began in cities like Boston and Chicago during the 1940s, when buffs organized formal fire buff clubs to support responders on scene.
- Preserving and promoting fire service heritage: Fire buffs help restore old apparatus, run fire museums and maintain department archives. Notable institutions like the Los Angeles Fire Department Historical Society or the FDNY Fire Museum owe much of their existence to buffs’ dedication.
- Monitoring and reporting: Before modern scanners, buffs would listen to fire calls on AM radios or even through telegraph tickers in the 1920s and ’30s. Today, many still monitor fire department radio traffic and track major incidents, often aiding in media reports or historical records.
What fire buffs are not
For those who might be a little confused, fire buffs are typically not:
- Firefighters (unless also certified): Fire buffs should never interfere at an active scene.
- Thrill-chasers: Chasing lights and sirens for entertainment is dangerous and disrespectful.
- Insiders: Access to stations, incident scenes or tactical information is earned, not assumed.
How to become a fire buff, the right way
Start with curiosity and respect: Read books, attend open houses, follow local fire news and study the basics of incident command, fire science and departmental culture.
Join a fire buff club or historical society: There are many organizations that cater to the fire buff community.
These groups often provide training in scene etiquette, radio communication and incident support. Many operate canteen units or help with department ceremonies.
Volunteer for fire service support roles: Fire buffs can help with myriad duties.
- Fire museum curation
- Apparatus restoration
- Firefighter memorials and dedications
- Fundraising and public safety campaigns
Learn the code of fire buff conduct:
- Stay behind the lines
- Don’t post sensitive photos
- Never interfere
- Always ask for permission if entering a station or filming equipment
Remember, being a fire buff is more than a hobby, it’s a calling rooted in respect, tradition and genuine support. The fire service is one of the few vocations where civilians can play a meaningful role without stepping onto the front lines. But that role comes with responsibility.
So, if you’re drawn to the sound of sirens and the sight of ladder trucks rumbling through your city, consider channeling that passion into fire buffing the right way. Learn the history. Join the community. Support the mission.
FireRescue1 is using generative AI to create some content that is edited and fact-checked by our editors.Ask ChatGPT
