Prior to 1907 the various Insurance Companies who insured property within the Island provided the only organised fire cover in Guernsey. There were three Brigades within St Peter Port and their purpose was to reduce the liability of the insurers in the event of fire.

By 1907 the Parish Authorities of St Peter Port had assumed responsibility for the Fire Brigade, which was housed on the outskirts of the Town and manned by volunteers. When called upon the Brigade would charge for its services. This arrangement continued until 1922, when the States of Guernsey assumed control.

In 1935 the Brigade moved to the Town Arsenal site and has remained there ever since. Soon after, in 1938 the first full time member was appointed to the Brigade, with his brief being to organise the training of Brigade members, administration and the maintenance of the fire hydrants located throughout the Island, (duties which remain very relevant today).

On the 1st April 2005 the Guernsey Fire Brigade became the Guernsey Fire & Rescue Service in recognition of the broader role now carried out in the Community and also in line with all other British Fire & Rescue Services.