Heston Fire Station, which is actually located in Isleworth, was built by Heston and Isleworth Borough Council in 1936.
We know that the first fire engine was in the area in 1745. This was a parish pump operated by volunteers and pulled by horses. The first motor fire engine came into use in 1903, and a professional fire brigade was not established until well into the 20th century.
The Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) formed in 1938, as part of the Civil Defence Service. This increased the resources of the fire services during wartime.
The Heston and Isleworth Fire Brigade’s work often focused on attending fires along the Great West Road, the site of many factories. They cooperated with other local fire brigades even though this was not always a straightforward process. As their equipment and tactics were not always compatible.
In 1941, all fire brigades, including Heston and Isleworth, became part of the National Fire Service (NFS).
In 1948, the NFS was disbanded and many fire brigades returned to local authority control. However, Heston and Isleworth Fire Brigade became part of the newly formed Middlesex Fire Brigade.
The Greater London Council formed in 1965 and as the borders of London were expanded, Heston Fire Station joined London Fire Brigade (LFB). This meant that personnel, vehicles and equipment were transferred over, including this foam tender.
Currently, Heston is home to one of LFB’s Fire Rescue Units. This attends incidents across London, where specialised rescue techniques or extended breathing apparatus are needed.
The station also houses a Pump Fire Engine and a Pump Ladder Fire Engine. It is crewed by a Station Officer, a Sub Officer, three Leading Firefighters and fifteen Firefighters.