Prior to 1870 village trustees were given fire extinguishers and were responsible for responding to small fires. In 1871, West Eau Claire received a third class Silsby steam engine, and in 1875 the city purchased a second. The Eau Claire Fire Department was established as a professional organization in 1887. Around the turn of the century a Police and Fire Commission formed so that the department could steer clear of politics. The department received its first piece of motorized equipment in 1912 and became completely motorized by 1927.

In 1924 a new fire station was recommended by fire chief James Welsh. Welsh retired in 1937 as the oldest fireman in Wisconsin, having served for 48 years. The department continued to add new and improved equipment over the years and in 1943 the Safety Building was built which housed the Fire, Health and Police Departments. During the 1940s and 50s the National Board of Fire Underwriters made several suggestions to the company regarding increasing manpower. The department also installed new radios, built a new fire station and installed a telephone fire alarm system with 42 boxes around the city.

Between 1968 and 1986 the Eau Claire Fire Department started a major redevelopment program, with its final goal being to provide better service faster. Equipment and tools were relocated, training programs developed, 911 dispatches became reality and 2 new fire stations opened. It was during this time that the department ambulance and EMT service also began. Over the years the Eau Claire Fire Department has added numerous other rescue services such as hazardous materials handling, water/scuba rescue, radiological defense and rappelling. The department also provides public education for fire prevention and pre-fire planning, and specialized programs for schools and local businesses.