The Szentes fire station building, which is under local heritage protection, was built in 1954. One of its most distinctive features is the 24-metre-high fire tower, from which visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Szentes. The Permanent Fire Service History Exhibition has been housed in the fire station’s courtyard following the conversion of an old equipment store; it covers 60 m² and showcases the development of fire safety in Szentes and the surrounding area.
The exhibition features the founding documents of the local fire brigade, established in 1873, as well as photographs and artefacts of the fire service’s founders from that era. Also on display are three Köhler steam fire engines and a water tanker pump from the early 20th century, reflecting not only the craftsmanship of their makers but also the skill of local firefighters. Furthermore, there are several small motorised pumps, fire extinguishers, breathing apparatus and tools necessary for the day-to-day work of firefighters, all made in the 1950s and later. Naturally, this exhibition would not be complete without one of the most essential elements of similar firefighting displays: the symbol of the fire service – the firefighter’s helmet. The building houses several leather helmets dating from the early 1900s, as well as helmets used by Hungarian and foreign fire services in the years that followed. Both the main and tower buildings, as well as the Permanent Firefighting History Exhibition, can be visited at any time of the year by prior arrangement.
