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

One of the primary functions of horse-drawn steam engines in firefighting was to extinguish fires using pressurized steam. These engines were innovative for their time, allowing for a more efficient way to combat fires compared to earlier methods. They would heat water to generate steam, which could then be used to create a powerful jet directed at a fire. This capability marked a significant advancement in firefighting technology, as it improved the volume and pressure of water that could be delivered to a fire scene.

While pumping water from lakes, transporting firefighters, and delivering chemical agents were also important functions in firefighting, the distinctive role of horse-drawn steam engines was their ability to use steam pressure to effectively combat fire, making them a vital tool in early urban firefighting efforts.