Historically, Shelter Island had two active fire departments — one in Shelter Island Heights, founded in 1895, and another one located in the center of town, founded in 1932. The two brigades merged in 1997 and, today, 80 volunteers respond to about 300 calls a year.
The department has ladders trucks, pumper trucks and rescue trucks and boats but does not have ambulance services. Emergency medical response on the island is provided by the last American Red Cross ambulance service in the country.