Coast Guard Station Fire Island
Located off the south shore of Long Island on a barrier beach is Coast Guard Station Fire Island. Originally part of the U.S. Life Saving Service, the station was once part of a series of lifeboat stations aiding stranded and shipwrecked mariners and passengers. Today, the 54 member crew, including active duty and reserve personnel continue the tradition.
The Fire Island crew protects 25 nautical miles of the Great South Bay, from the Amityville Cut to the Smith Point bridge and offshore into the Atlantic Ocean. Station Fire Island is equipped with a 47-foot Motor Life Boat, a 41-foot Utility Boat, and two 25-foot Response Boats. They conduct law enforcement patrols, search and rescue operations, and provides security on area ferries. Station personnel also work closely with the Suffolk County Police Marine Bureau, Babylon, Islip and Brookhaven Town Bay Constables and Harbor Masters.
All personnel have the opportunity to cross-train in a variety of positions. Boarding Officers, Coxswain, Engineer and Crew member qualifications are actively pursued while members are on duty. Boating Officer Qualification Support Program (BOQSP) training is essential to both active duty members and reservists.