The Berkeley Heights Fire Department honored Benjamin Franklin, whose contributions shaped the modern fire department, on his 320th birthday on January 18. In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Franklin and around twenty-five other people co-founded the Union Fire Company on December 7, 1736. The "Bucket Brigade" was the first all-volunteer fire department in the American colonies. In addition to responding to fires, members maintained equipment, underwent frequent training, and pledged to protect all properties—not just their own—inspired by Boston's Mutual Fire Societies.

The Philadelphia Contributionship for the Insurance of Houses from Loss of Fire, which is still the oldest prosperous property insurance firm in the country, was founded by Franklin after the fire company's success. His legacy still has an impact on community safety and fire safety today.