In 1869 the first fire fighting brigade in the region of Slovenia was established in Metlika. The 100th anniversary was marked by the opening of the Slovenian Fire Fighting Museum, which was in 2003 named after the long-time president of the Fire Fighting Association of Slovenia and the initiator for the establishment of the museum, Dr. Branko Božič. The museum is located in the old town core of Metlika in two buildings, which are in the vicinity of the Metlika castle. It bears witness to the historical heritage of fire fighting from the beginning until the present day, whereas you can also cast a look at fire engines and other pieces of fire fighting equipment.

In 2009 Metlika is organizing a great celebration dedicated to 140 years of the establishment of the first fire fighting brigade in the region of Slovenia.