Did you know that there are an estimated 1 million full-time and volunteer firefighters across the United States of America? Fire departments have played a key role in communities across the United States by taking active and courageous measures to keep people and structures safe. The fire department patch history tells the story of firefighters and their bravery.
Many people make the mistake of neglecting to understand the fire department patch symbolism. Fire department patches have key meanings and represent your community’s protectors going back hundreds of years.
The good news is that you’ve found the perfect guide to learning all about the fire department patches and their meanings. Keep reading to learn about the symbolism of fire department patches today!
The Maltese Cross
One of the most common fire department patches that you’ll encounter is the Maltese Cross. This is a common symbol that dates back to the Knights of St. John on the island of Malta. It didn’t take long for this cross to develop a reputation of protection and strength, especially for those that serve a purpose greater than themselves.
The fights that were ongoing during that time were among the first that made use of fire as a weapon. The Knights of St. John were notorious for rescuing and treating anyone that suffered burns from a fire on the battlefield. It makes a ton of sense that the Maltese Cross is seen on firefighter uniforms, helmets, and trucks as a sign of protection and help.
The Scramble
Another prominent fire department patch is The Scramble, and it is the patch that is in the center of the uniform. It’s known to contain a number of symbols like the ladder and the ax that firefighters are famous for. More modern versions of this firefighter patch contain the modern fire helmet and the fire hose.
It’s a great option for fire department patches since it offers a nice mix of the fire department patch history along with the modern tools used to protect and serve. Look for the Scramble patch the next time that you see a firefighter out and about.
The Bugle
The Bugle is also a great option for fire department patch designs. The Bugle is normal to see on fire department patches since it represents leadership and the call to action in times of need. In the days prior to the invention of the wireless radio, bugles were a reliable form of communication. The captain of the fire brigade would use the bugle as a way to give orders to firefighters on the scene.
The person carrying the bugle during this era of firefighting was often seen as the leader of the group. If you see a firefighter with patches that proudly display a number of bugles then you’re looking at someone with a great deal of seniority within the ranks.
Red Patches
Another normal patch to see when it comes to fire department patches is red patches. Expect to see a decent amount of red on any patch that a firefighter wears as this displays the connection of the fire department to the goal of fighting off fires. Red is the color that is often associated with fire department patches so it makes sense that it is prominent on the uniform.
The red in these patches not only increases visibility but also is a display of courage and bravery. It takes a lot of courage to run into a burning building to help those in need and these fire department patches are a great display of that on the uniform.
Benefits of Becoming a Firefighter
Now that you have a greater understanding of the patches on a firefighter uniform it is important to look at the benefits of exploring a career as a firefighter. If you’re someone that has always enjoyed helping others and making a difference in your community then it offers a wonderful career path. Here’s a closer look!
Physical Fitness
A great benefit of becoming a firefighter is the chance that it provides to maintain your body and your physical fitness. You will need to carry heavy gear into burning buildings and you’ll need the strength to carry injured persons out. Odds are that you will enjoy the use of a gym located in the firehouse for your convenience.
Save Lives
Another big reason to consider becoming part of fire department patch history is to save the lives of people in need within your community. You will spend your shift responding to emergency situations and you will use your skills to save the lives of people who are trapped in life-threatening situations.
You will also have the chance to share life-saving tips with people in your community so that they can respond to the proper steps should they experience an out-of-control fire. It makes a big difference and it also inspires others to follow in your path to become a firefighter.
Gain New Skills
You will also gain a plethora of new skills when you dedicate your life to becoming a firefighter. Firefighters need great communication skills in order to work well with each other and to help distressed people that are in need of help. You will also hone and develop your critical thinking skills to navigate tricky or dangerous situations with the best responses possible.
Firefighters also need to learn a high level of time management and empathy. Having these skills is great because it will allow you to help others to the best of your ability while living your best life.
Now You’re an Expert on Fire Department Patches
Learning about fire department patches is a big step in the direction of appreciating the things that firefighters do within their communities. The fire department patch symbolism represents the bravery of firefighters and their history going back to the Knights of St. John on the island of Malta. Knowing the fire department patches will help you understand the courage of firefighters.
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