What was one of the primary functions of horse-drawn steam engines in fire fighting?

The primary function of horse-drawn steam engines in firefighting was to extinguish fires using pressurized steam. These engines were equipped with boilers that created steam, which would then be used under pressure to propel water onto the fire, enhancing the effectiveness of firefighting efforts. The use of steam allowed firefighters to deliver water at greater distances and with more force than manual hand pumps, significantly improving the speed and efficiency of fire suppression.

The steam engine itself played a crucial role in transitioning firefighting from manpower to mechanization, ultimately revolutionizing the way fires were fought. This method of firefighting was more effective than simply transporting firefighters to the scene or delivering chemical agents, which were not as common at the time. Additionally, while horse-drawn engines could transport water, their main advantage and innovation in firefighting lay in their ability to use steam pressure to directly extinguish flames.