What impact did the 1906 disaster have on fire department practices?

The significant impact of the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and subsequent fires led to a heightened awareness of the need for better urban planning and fire safety standards, which resulted in stricter building codes. Following the disaster, the city recognized vulnerabilities in its infrastructure and building practices that contributed to the fire's extensive damage.

Stricter building codes were implemented to enhance the resilience of structures against both seismic activity and fire hazards. These codes aimed to ensure that buildings were constructed with materials and designs that could better withstand fire, thereby reducing the likelihood of similar catastrophic events in the future.

The focus shifted not only to fire response but also to proactive measures in urban development, focusing on fire safety as an integral part of building practices. This change in regulations laid foundational principles for how cities approach fire safety and urban design even into contemporary practices.