ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) — Today marks the 200th anniversary of the Ithaca Fire Department. 

A hand pumper, 27 feet of leather hose, a nozzle, and rope to pull all of it by hand was approved by officials in the village of Ithaca on June 6, 1823.

Assistant Chief Jim Wheal notes that firefighters today provide rescue, medical, fire prevention, and many other services apart from battling blazes.