Why is the Maltese Cross the symbol of the fire service?

The Maltese Cross represents the heroic ideals of saving lives and extinguishing fires. The emblem was borrowed from the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem. The Knights were an organization that existed in the 11th and 12th Centuries helping the poor and the sick. The Knights of St. John later assisted the Knights of the Crusades in a relief effort to the Island of Malta, the island for which the Maltese Cross was named. The Maltese Cross came to represent the principles of:

  • Charity
  • Chivalry
  • Dexterity in service
  • Generosity to friend or foe
  • Loyalty
  • Protection of the weak

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1. Why do we commemorate Fire Prevention Week?
2. What is the Fire Triangle?
3. Where do Fire Poles come from?
4. How long have sprinkler systems been in use?
5. When was the first fire department organized in the United States?
6. Why are dalmatians considered firehouse dogs?
7. Why is the Maltese Cross the symbol of the fire service?