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LCC- MFB horse drawn escape cart and ladder
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LCC- MFB horse drawn escape cart and ladder
A horse-drawn 50ft wheeled escape ladder. These could be very quickly slipped by the crew and extended up to a window. Their sole purpose was rescue, and these units, one of which was based at each fire station, carried no firefighing equipment. There were no warning devices to help them through Londons traffic - the crew would should Hi! Hi! Hi! to clear the way. The driver has his right hand on the brake lever and would operate this during the exciting dash to the fire
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Media ID 7644031
© London Fire Brigade / Mary Evans
50ft Crew Crews Drawn Escape Extended Horsed Ladder Ladders Pair Rescue Units Wheeled Firefighter Firefighters Firefighting Fireman Firemen
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases a horse-drawn escape cart and ladder from the London Fire Brigade (LFB) in the late 1890s. The cart, which measures 50 feet in length, was a vital piece of equipment for the fire service during this era. Its primary function was to facilitate swift rescues, as it carried no firefighting equipment. Each fire station housed one of these units. The horse-drawn cart, operated by a dedicated crew, was an essential component of the LFB's emergency response system. The crew would quickly hitch the horses and dash towards the scene of the fire, extending the ladder as they approached the building. The ladder could be extended up to a window to provide access for firefighters or civilians in need of rescue. The driver of this horse-drawn unit holds the brake lever with his right hand, ready to apply the brakes during the thrilling dash through the streets of London. The crew would call out "Hi! Hi! Hi!" to clear the way through the city's busy traffic. The absence of warning devices made navigating London's streets a challenging task, adding to the urgency and excitement of their mission. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the determination and bravery of the firefighters who operated these horse-drawn escape carts and ladders during the Victorian era. The LFB's commitment to saving lives was evident in their quick response times and the use of innovative equipment like this horse-drawn escape ladder.
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