Not much is known about Fire Precautions prior to 1900 but it is known that a manual fire pump was held at the Barracks and in the Depot, these pumps were transported to the scene of the fire by horses as were later the steam fire engines.

A regular Fire Brigade was formed about 1900 from Depot personnel. Quarters were built and allocated opposite to the Depot Main Gates and fire alarm bells installed.

The Storeholder was also Captain of the Brigade and employees belonging to the Brigade were paid 2/6d. a week in addition to free living accommodation.