This work is published on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the volunteer fire department and the 50th anniversary of the professional fire department in Heidelberg. It documents the social and technological history of the fire service. In three parts, various experts approach this topic. The beginnings of the volunteer fire department in the 1840s are particularly exciting, as liberal citizenry demanded the assumption of previously state-controlled responsibilities. The second part highlights the 50-year history of the professional fire department. It not only discusses the establishment and function of this institution but also presents the unique hazards faced in Heidelberg. The third part examines the fire department in a more general context. Numerous photos illustrate the contributions, and all types of vehicles used by the Heidelberg fire department since its inception are depicted.