How were fire response times typically in the pre-1900s?

In the pre-1900s era, when firefighting technology and infrastructure were not as developed as they are today, fire response times were typically slow. Firefighters often faced considerable delays due to a lack of organized response systems, inadequate transportation methods, and limited communication tools. As a result, they frequently arrived at the scene of a fire after significant damage had already occurred, particularly in industrial settings like factories where flammable materials were common. The advancements in firefighting techniques, transportation vehicles, and communication methods that we rely on today were not available, further contributing to the challenges of timely response.

Understanding this context highlights the importance of historical developments in firefighting practices and how they contribute to enhanced efficiency in modern emergency response systems.