Cisterns were brick lined pits in the street that would hold water for firefighting. Unlike today where fire hydrants provide firefighting water, the olden days utilized cisterns. The resulting steam would turn the motor mechanism which would turn the water pump.
The beautiful boiler carried water, which was boiled by a fire built below it.
The steam fire engine was capable of pumping 600 gallons of water per minute using the steam driven water pump. One such apparatus is PF&R’s 1911 American LaFrance Metropolitan 3rd class steamer. One thing is certain – new or old, a shiny piece of fire equipment always draws public interest. Some exceptions have shown great longevity. In most cases, fire apparatus serve for about 25 years. Much time and effort is spent on the care and maintenance of these vehicles. View Less Spotlight on PF&R's 1911 American LaFrance Metropolitan 3rd Class Steamer at 3:34 PM 5 Commentsįire apparatus remain one of the most recognizable features of Portland Fire & Rescue (PF&R). 2020 Virtual Portland Metro Fire Camp for Young Women.Burn Ban Issued for Multnomah County Starting Friday July 24, 2020.Statement from Fire Chief Sara Boone Regarding Portland Fire & Rescue’s Response to Racist Incident.Learn about the levels of emergency evacuation.The Different Levels of Emergency Evacuation.PF&R Responds to Over 500 Fire Incidents During Red Flag Fire Weather Event & Deploys 70 Firefighters to Regional Wildfires.