Chief's Message

I would like to take a minute to welcome all the residents and visitors to our beautiful coastal community of Surf City.  It is my pleasure to serve you as the Town’s fire chief.  The career and volunteer members of the Surf City Fire Department are here for you and strive to make our slice of paradise safe for all to enjoy.  For more than 20 years, the brave men and women of the Surf City Fire Department have been working to keep citizens, businesses and visitors safe.  Our mission is to proudly and continuously protect life, property and the environment from fire, medical emergencies, natural disasters and other emergencies for those who live, work and travel in and throughout the Town of Surf City and surrounding districts with competent, professional and honest personnel.

Prior to 1999 the town was protected by the Surf City Volunteer Fire Department.  At its inception in 1999, the Town of Surf City Department utilized a combination approach to fire protection.  At that time the department consisted of one paid firefighter 24 hours a day and was supplemented by a strong force of volunteers.  Today, the department still utilizes a combination approach, but relies more on career staff with six firefighters 24 hours a day and three administrative personnel.  While the department has a full staff, it still relies on support from the local volunteer firefighters.  In 2013, the Town of Surf City entered into an agreement with Pender County to contract for fire protection in the unincorporated areas surrounding the town. 

Much has changed since the department was founded in 1999, but one constant has been the commitment of our men and women to the safety of our community.  As Surf City has grown and evolved into a more year-round beach community, the fire department has had to adapt to new threats and challenges.  This means our personnel spend more time with other duties than just fires.  Firefighters today are considered all-hazard responders assisting with fires, medical calls, natural disasters, specialized rescue, ocean rescue, hazardous materials, etc.  They also dedicate time to fire prevention and education through fire code enforcement, public education programs, fire safety presentations, child safety seat installations, and smoke alarm installs. 

I am honored to serve alongside the firefighters here in Surf City.  They have made a personal commitment to your safety as you live, work or visit our community.  I invite you and your family to learn more about the Surf City Fire Department and the services we provide. Should time allow, we also invite you to visit either of our stations.

Sincerely, 

Chief Allen Wilson