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Public Safety Department
Lead Staff

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Department Info

The Department of Public Safety is charged with ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents, employees, and visitors to the island as well as the security and safety of the properties on the island.  All Public Safety Officers are required to become certified in law enforcement, firefighting, and as an EMT or paramedic.  In addition, they must be trained in water rescue.  

Staff: The Department is led by the Public Safety Chief, Joshua Gibson, and Command Staff, Deputy Chief, Police (VACANT) and Deputy Chief, Fire/EMS, Paul Homick.  There are four shifts that are led by a lieutenant, with three to six Public Safety Officers on duty 24 hours a day and seven days a week.  

The Administrative Assistant to the Director (Elizabeth Gray) handles ICE permits, golf cart registrations, and general office duties plus clinic registration during the summer season.    The department is supported by a volunteer staff who assist with medical emergencies, firefighting, and water rescue. Click HERE to download an application to volunteer. Applications are accepted year-round.

Equipment: The Department has three fully-equipped fire engines. The Department has two ambulances that are fully stocked for emergencies and a mini-ambulance that is available for use on narrow roads and on bridges. 

Water rescue is facilitated by two jet skis, a 16-foot zodiac with a 60 HP engine, and a Jon boat for use in the marsh.  An ATV and a UTV are available for use in beach rescue.   

Public Safety Officers patrol in the two Quick Response Vehicles which are equipped with a variety of supplies for first response to medical emergencies, fires, and water rescue as well as for law enforcement.  

Summer Walk-In Clinic:  During the summer season Dosher Hospital operates a medical clinic at the Public Safety Building. However, due to staffing shortages, there was not a clinic during the 2023 season.  CLICK HERE for more information.