The Long Beach Fire Department administrates fire safety, protection and response for the city. Its aim is to protect and preserve lives, property and the environment, as well as improve quality of life and safety for residents within the community. Services include maintenance of citywide fire, medical, beach and waterway emergency response, prevention, education and preparedness, disaster management and homeland security, and basic improvement of quality of life. Its staff is represented by over 500 FTE (Full Time Equivalent) uniformed and civilian personnel. The LBFD was founded over a century ago.