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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, Command Staff, Deputy Chief, Police Philip Horne, and Deputy Chief, Fire/EMS, Buddy Brooks.  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 handles ICE permits, assists with online golf cart registrations, and handles general office duties.   

The department is supported by a volunteer staff who assist with medical emergencies, firefighting, and water rescue.

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.