The First Fire Codes

The first fire codes were put into affect by Emperor Nero. He made the streets wider and buildings that would have front porches that could be pulled down in case of emergency. The first fire fighters were formed in 268 AD by Emperor Gallienus. He put General Florian in charge of 7,000 Roman soldiers, who would constantly be on call for putting out the fires. The emperor also ordered that these men persecute any Christians who would not denounce their faith. Florian was one of these who was not spared and was beaten by his own men. He demanded they build a bigger fire to throw them into, but they could not build a big enough one no matter how they tried. They later threw him into the river and he drowned. His body washed ashore some days later and an eagle guarded his body till he received a proper Christian burial. Florian was later made a saint, and firefighters where the Florian Eagle today on their uniforms.

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