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About Us
Chatham County Fire Department Beginnings
Founded by a committed group of volunteers, Southside Communities Fire Protection Inc. began its journey on August 28, 1961, serving the unincorporated areas of Chatham County with just 420 subscribers, one fire station, and a modest budget of $10,500.
Over the next three decades, the department grew significantly, adding new stations and facilities, and absorbing the Wilmington Island, Montgomery, and Seventh District volunteer fire departments, and established the Skidaway Division.
In 1997, Southside took a significant step forward by acquiring Mercy Ambulance Service, expanding its mission to include emergency medical services. This commitment to comprehensive community care continued with the purchase of MedStar One Ambulance in 2011 from Memorial Health University Medical Center.
In 2017, the organization rebranded as Chatham Emergency Services, continuing to serve Chatham County with the same dedication that has always defined them. As this chapter closes, we must celebrate the countless lives touched and saved, the community partnerships forged, and the legacy of service that will be remembered.
Thank you to all the volunteers, staff, and community members who have been a part of the nearly 63-year journey. Your dedication and support have been the cornerstone of its success. While Southside Communities Fire Protection Inc. may be concluding its fire services, the mission will live on through the Chatham County Fire Department.
Chatham County Fire Department Officially Established
Since January, a dedicated transition team led by County Manager Michael Kaigler, Chief Jeff Hadley and Fire Chief James Vickers have been working diligently to explore options for a smooth and successful transition of the new Chatham County Fire Department.
An agreement between Chatham County and Chatham Emergency Services solidified the transition of fire services to a county government department. This momentous strategic move is aimed to ensure financial stability and provide strong leadership from the County. The new fire department will afford the County Commission local control over expenses, operations and level of service moving forward.
In addition, the transition is designed to enhance efficiency, improve coordination and ensure the continued safety and well-being of our community. Our commitment to safety and security of our community remains unwavering. The transition is structured to be seamless, ensuring that emergency response and support will continue without interruption.
Effective July 1, 2024, the Chatham County Fire Department stands ready to respond to calls for service. 14 stations will be staffed by 152 members and will be led by Chief James Vickers. Transfer of all equipment from the prior service provider will take place.
Present and Future of the Chatham County Fire Department
The History of the Chatham County Fire Department was birthed from humble beginnings. Much has occurred over the past 60 years, but one thing has remained as a beacon of light guiding the department through the years, its core philosophy.
The Chatham County Fire Department’s core philosophy is a commitment to growing a department that excels in both service delivery and organizational culture. Serving the citizens of Chatham County is the cornerstone of our duty that as a department, we take great care and pride in preserving. We will continuously evaluate and adjust our goals to meet the evolving needs of the community. In doing so, dedication and passion for service are instilled in our culture as a fire department. They are attributes that are in the DNA of every member of team.
As we continue to strive for excellence in service and delivery, we stand ready to proudly serve the residents of Chatham County, then, now and in the future.
