In everyday language: Life stories played out in real-life settings tend to captivate audiences, particularly when presented through mediums such as TV and movies. Over time, a significant number of emergency response series have graced our television screens, some of which are still being broadcast today. The struggles of firefighters have been depicted numerous times over the past few decades. In recent years, there was a decline in the popularity of firefighting dramas; however, they’ve regained public interest once more.
In this piece, we’ll be counting down our top 10 favorite television series centered around firefighting, providing a brief overview and summary for each one. Stick around to the end if you’re intrigued by the world of firefighters on screen!
10. Tacoma FD (2019-2023)
The majority of emergency service shows are dramas that aim to simulate real-life emergencies for audiences. But let’s kick off this list with a comedy, because sometimes we all need a good laugh! Tacoma FD is a TV series set in a firehouse in Tacoma, Washington, where it rains most of the time. Due to the constant wet weather, the fire department doesn’t get too busy, but the crew still manages to find themselves involved in activities that are more about the town than fighting fires… with plenty of unusual and humorous scenarios thrown in for good measure.
The show is available on HBO Max, Spectrum TV, truTV, and Prime Video.
9. Fire Chasers (2017)
As a movie enthusiast, let me tell you about one standout on this list – the mini docu-series titled “Fire Chasers”. This Netflix production, masterfully produced by none other than Leonardo DiCaprio, delves into the perils of firefighting jobs during California’s most intense fire season back in 2016. In a four-episode format, it offers an intimate look at four distinct viewpoints amidst the fiery battles against the raging wildfires that threatened homes and vast tracts of woodland. This thought-provoking documentary serves as a stark reminder of the risks firefighters face in their daily lives.
The show is available on Netflix.
8. Emergency! (1972-1977)
We’re returning with a blast from the past, delving into the captivating world of the 70s television series titled “Emergency!” This show, which originally aired from 1972 to 1977, spanned an impressive 122 episodes. Known as one of the trailblazers in American emergency TV dramas, it offered a gripping portrayal of real-life EMS work and further fueled public interest in this field and firefighting. The series primarily centered around the dedicated team at Station 51 and the emergency room staff at Rampart General Hospital.
The structure of this series resembles modern emergency-themed dramas, with each incident per episode, while some character arcs unfold over time behind the scenes. After half a century, items related to Emergency! have been added to the National Museum of American History’s collection at the Smithsonian Institution, and are now part of the Los Angeles County Fire Museum. You can catch up with this classic series on Prime Video.
7. Chicago Fire (2012-)
In the 2010s, emergency TV shows were flourishing with intense competition, but one series stood out and quickly captured the public’s interest. “Chicago Fire” focuses on the professional and personal adventures of firefighters, paramedics, and rescue workers from the Chicago Fire Department, stationed at Firehouse 51, a fictional location reminiscent of the Emergency! series’ setting.
The narrative continues post the demise of seasoned firefighter Andrew Darden, leading to a rift between Lieutenants Matthew Casey and Kelly Severide. With their personal differences aside, they must collaborate to rescue individuals in peril. Currently streaming on Peacock and Amazon Prime Video.
6. 9-1-1: Lone Star (2020-2025)
9-1-1: Lone Star is a fresh TV series, a spin-off from the successful Fox original 9-1-1 show that aired some years ago. Ryan Murphy serves as its creator. This new show shares the same format but features distinct characters and settings in Austin, Texas. In our upcoming discussion, we’ll delve deeper into the original 9-1-1 series.
Since its debut, the show has resonated with audiences and presented a unique narrative distinct from its precursor, 9-1-1. The spin-off series, titled “Lone Star,” focuses on Owen Strand, a former New York firefighter who moves to Austin, Texas, along with his son. Prior to their move, Captain Owen Strand’s son T.K. experienced an overdose from opioids, leading to the decision to relocate and work in emergency services.
As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but rave about 9-1-1: Lone Star! This series keeps me hooked with its compelling narratives and genuine portrayals of characters navigating through real-life crises. If you haven’t already, catch it on Disney+ streaming platform for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
5. London Burning (1988-2002)
Back in the ’80s, there were some shows that managed to keep going for decades, and one of those timeless series is the beloved English firefighter TV show, London Burning. This classic program first graced our screens on ITV back in 1988, and it continued to air until 2002, with only brief interruptions throughout the years.
This series focuses on the team at the fictional Blackwall fire station, part of the London Fire Brigade (specifically Blue Watch). Instead of just typical emergencies, it delves into the complex racial and social challenges faced by these multicultural firefighters as they strive to rescue people in peril. ‘London Burning’ offers a unique perspective within the genre, tackling deeper themes relevant to those working as firefighters. You can catch it on Prime Video.
4. Station 19 (2018-2024)
On this list, we also have a new addition called Station 19. This series originated in 2017 as a spin-off from the well-known hospital drama Grey’s Anatomy. Just like Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19 is based in Seattle. However, instead of focusing on the city’s hospital, it centers around the Seattle Fire Department, where both men and women work tirelessly to rescue their fellow citizens.
Just like Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19 blends high-risk firefighting jobs with the personal struggles of its characters, which can occasionally impact their work. Notably, characters from Seattle’s Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital frequently make guest appearances in Station 19 due to their shared universe. This year, the show has been renewed for another season and can be streamed on Disney+ platforms.
3. Third Watch (1999-2005)
Interestingly, there’s a series titled “Third Watch” from New York that we have on our list. This American crime drama ran from 1999 to 2005 and is often recognized as one of the top emergency services dramas. Although it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as some other shows here, “Third Watch” is known for being somewhat underappreciated in the world of emergency series. The show focuses on characters from the New York Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and New York City Fire Department.
In their own unique narratives, these characters’ lives intertwine due to their shared occupation, necessitating daily collaboration. A particularly poignant episode of “Third Watch” focuses on the September 11 attacks in New York City, 2001, which remains one of the series’ most emotional episodes. You can stream this show on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video streaming services.
2. 9-1-1 (2018-)
9-1-1, a captivating emergency response drama created by Ryan Murphy, debuted in 2018 and has since garnered significant attention from viewers. The show focuses on the personal lives of first responders in Los Angeles, including police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and dispatchers.
Upon initial observation, 9-1-1 may appear as an ordinary emergency response series that we’ve seen before. However, a closer look reveals that it is anything but typical. Beyond emergencies, the show delves into the personal lives, mental states, and their effect on the professional lives of its characters. For instance, one firefighter, Buck, grapples with PTSD, depression, and other health issues that push him towards perilous situations, disregarding his own life. Representative portrayals are crucial in 9-1-1, striking a balance to not overshadow the show’s narrative, which appeals to fans. Indeed, it stands as one of the top firefighting projects on television today.
9-1-1 is available on Disney+ streaming platform.
1. Rescue Me (2004-2011)
Ultimately, we’ve reached the conclusion of our list, and for a valid reason, we chose to place Rescue Me at the forefront.
Among the firefighting series on this list, “Rescue Me” stands out as one of the most watched due to its authenticity. Broadcast on Fox from 2004 to 2011, it was once a highly-rated emergency-themed TV show. The narrative of Rescue Me revolves around Tommy Gavin, a seasoned New York firefighter, and his fellow firefighters in the aftermath of the 9/11 event. The series explores the challenges they face with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), which affects their personal and professional lives significantly.
The production spotlights the courage of hardworking men, delving into their challenges and mental wellbeing, which holds significant relevance in such demanding roles. Despite being labeled as selfish and manipulative, Tommy transforms into a heroic figure when on duty as a firefighter, putting others’ lives ahead of his own.
Rescue Me is available on Disney+ streaming platforms.
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2025-06-09 08:15