This is the definitive encyclopedia of fire engines from all over the world charting their history from Roman times to the super-advanced fire fighting machines that we rely on today. The A-Z of fire engine manufacturers depicts the ups and downs of each, from General Motors in the USA and Metz in Germany to Hino in Japan. Specification boxes showing their engine type, power and transmission, highlight each engine. There is documentation of early fires, including the Great Fire of London, showing how events such as these led to the need for an organised fire service. Landmark advances are detailed, from horse drawn and manually pumped engines to motorisation and the use of aerial ladders and specialist breathing equipment. A section on modern day fire brigades tells of the different crews that are needed for city and rural areas, as well as fascinating facts about training, uniforms and special rescue techniques. With previously unpublished images of fire engines in action, this fabulous new book is the ultimate fire fighting and engine history.