History of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 22, 2026

The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department (AFRD) provides fire protection and first responder emergency medical services to the city of Atlanta, Georgia. It covers 132.6 square miles, serving over 519,000 residents. As of January 21, 2021, Roderick M. Smith serves as the Fire Chief, leading the department's efforts in safeguarding the city.

May 21, 1917: The Great Atlanta Fire of 1917

On May 21, 1917, the Great Atlanta Fire broke out in the Old Fourth Ward around 12:30 pm, destroying 1,900 structures, displacing over 10,000 people, and causing an estimated $5 million in damages.

December 7, 1946: The Winecoff Hotel Fire

On December 7, 1946, the Winecoff Hotel fire, the deadliest hotel fire in United States history, occurred, resulting in 119 fatalities.

March 25, 1951: Atlanta Fire Company No. 1 Started

On March 25, 1951, the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department was officially established as the Atlanta Fire Company No. 1.

1962: First hiring of African American Firemen

In 1962, Mayor Ivan Allen Jr. authorized the hiring of sixteen African American firemen in response to pressure from the African-American community to integrate the city's fire department.

April 1, 1963: Integration of Fire Station No. 16

On April 1, 1963, after completing training, sixteen African American firemen were housed at Fire Station No. 16, marking a step towards the integration of the Atlanta Fire Department.

1977: Hiring of African-American women as firefighters

In 1977, Mayor Maynard Jackson ordered the hiring of seven African-American women to serve as firefighters, continuing the efforts to diversify the fire department.

March 2, 2007: Bluffton University bus accident

On March 2, 2007, the Bluffton University bus accident occurred on Interstate 75 in Atlanta, resulting in seven fatalities and 29 injuries. The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department was the primary agency on scene.