The Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr (Museum of the Berlin Fire Department) is a museum dedicated to the history of firefighting in Berlin, Germany. Located in the Löwenstrasse area of Berlin, the museum offers a fascinating look at the development of fire safety, firefighting techniques, and equipment used over the centuries.

Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr

Veitstraße 5

13507 Berlin

Germany

www.feuerwehrmuseum-berlin.de

info@feuerwehrmuseum-berlin.de

+49 (0)30 387-10 933

This museum is closed for the installation of the new elevator extensive construction work necessary. Beside the actual elevator the entrance and cash register area must also be renewed.

Admission fee

Aircraft collection

N4573T

MBB Bö 105CBS

Christoph 31 Berlin in front of the Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr, due to the special regulations in Berlin up to 1989 the ADAC Rettungshubschrauber was operated by an American Airline.

This helicopter is actually D-HOFF which was severly damaged on a motorway near Uelzen in November 1999. Now on display in front of the Feuerwehrmuseum and painted in original “Christoph 31 Berlin” colours. The real “N4573T” (cn S-672) was sold to TAF Helicopters and re-registered EC-HPB.

Key Features of the Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr:

1. History of Firefighting in Berlin:
   • The museum showcases the evolution of firefighting in Berlin, starting from the early 19th century to the modern day.
   • It covers the challenges faced by the fire brigades in a growing urban environment, including historical fires that had a significant impact on the city.
2. Fire Engines and Equipment:
   • One of the Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr‘s highlights is its collection of historic fire engines, including horse-drawn pumps, early steam-powered engines, and motorized fire trucks from different periods.
   • The museum also displays a variety of firefighting tools and equipment, such as hoses, ladders, and helmets, showcasing the evolution of tools used by firefighters over time.
3. Uniforms and Protective Gear:
   • The museum features firefighter uniforms and protective gear, illustrating how these items have changed to adapt to new challenges in firefighting.
   • Visitors can see old-fashioned firefighting uniforms made of leather and wool, and compare them to modern-day fire-resistant materials.
4. Historical Firefighting Technology:
   • The Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr provides insight into the technological advances in firefighting, such as the introduction of gas-powered engines and modern water pumps, alongside historical equipment like hand-operated pumps and fire extinguishing devices.
5. Interactive Displays:
   • Some parts of the museum offer interactive exhibits where visitors can engage with the history of firefighting. This includes simulations of fire scenarios and firefighting techniques, providing hands-on experiences for children and adults alike.
6. Significant Fires in Berlin’s History:
   • The museum highlights major fires in Berlin’s history, particularly catastrophic events like the Great Fire of 1850, which helped shape the city’s firefighting policies and infrastructure.
   • It explores how these fires influenced the development of fire safety protocols and led to the formation of the city’s professional fire departments.
7. Firefighting in Wartime:
   • The Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr also covers the role of the fire service during wartime, especially during the World Wars when firefighters had to deal with air raids, bombings, and the destruction of the city’s infrastructure.
   • The exhibits show how firefighting practices adapted to wartime conditions, with special equipment designed to combat bomb-related fires.
8. Special Exhibits and Events:
   • The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions, such as showcasing specific eras of firefighting history or specific pieces of equipment.
   • Events like lectures, demonstrations, and fire safety workshops are held to further educate the public on fire prevention and safety.
9. Preservation of Firefighting Heritage:
   • The Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr is also a place of preservation for old firefighting traditions and artifacts. It works to keep the legacy of Berlin’s fire services alive, ensuring that important historical aspects of firefighting culture are not forgotten.

Summary:

The Museum der Berliner Feuerwehr is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of firefighting, public safety, and the development of fire services. Through its collection of historic fire engines, uniforms, tools, and exhibits on major historical fires, the museum offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors. It’s not only an educational space but also a tribute to the bravery and dedication of the fire service personnel who have served the city of Berlin over the centuries. Whether you’re interested in technology, history, or firefighting itself, this museum offers a rich and detailed look at an essential part of Berlin’s past.

Photo Rob Vogelaar