Louisville Fire celebrates 167 years, opens firefighter applications

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Fire Department is celebrating its 167th birthday Sunday.

Louisville Fire Capt. Donovan Sims said the department is the third oldest professional department in the country. It started with three houses and 65 firefighters with 28 horses and three steam engines serving around 70,000 people.

Louisville Fire has grown to 21 houses and 26 companies, responding to a variety of emergency situations.

"We do it all," Sims said. "It's pretty cool to know that this history has been around for so long and we're going to keep growing."

Louisville Fire will start accepting applications June 2 through July 4 for firefighter recruits. The starting salary is more than $66,000 and no college or previous experience is required.

"It is rewarding," Sims said. "Every day is different."

The minimum requirements ask for applicants to be 18 years old or older, have a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver's license.

To learn more and apply, click here.

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