How is it ironic? How many people were saved from burning buildings in your city last year?<p>The truth is, technology and building codes in the US–and especially California–have significantly reduced the loss of life and property due to fires. That&#x27;s a great thing. Unfortunately, fire department budgets have increased at the same time. Partly due to pensions, partly due to the fact that cutting a fire budget is political suicide.<p>Have you noticed how 30-foot, $1 million+ fire engines show up to minor traffic accidents and first aid calls? There&#x27;s a reason (they need to look busy).<p>Fun fact: 8% of calls to fire departments are false alarms and 64% are for non-fire medical support.