Emergency Fire Service, Emergency fire service in South Australia, Australia

The Emergency Fire Service was the rural fire and emergency service of South Australia during the 20th century. It grew out of volunteer brigades equipped by the government during the Second World War, first in Adelaide and later in country areas, and was supervised by an Emergency Fire Services operation within the Police Department. In 1979 the Country Fires Act renamed it the SA Country Fire Service.

The Emergency Fire Service grew from colonial-era arrangements in which fire suppression was left to local residents, after an 1847 ordinance against reckless burn-offs. Government-equipped volunteer EFS brigades were formed during the Second World War, first in Adelaide and later in some country areas. From the mid-1950s volunteers campaigned for statutory status, achieved in 1976 with the Country Fires Act; in 1979 the EFS was renamed the SA Country Fire Service.

The service runs training programs for communities, teaching residents how to prevent fires and respond correctly when danger strikes. These courses are woven into daily life for many families across the state who want to protect their homes and workplaces.

Visitors can check the service's website for current hazard alerts and safety guidance to stay informed about potential risks in their area. Much of this information is freely available and helps residents improve their own security preparedness.

The service has launched special campaigns addressing lithium-ion battery hazards, recognizing how modern technology creates new dangers in homes and workplaces. This recent focus shows how the organization adapts as household and workplace risks evolve.