Our History

Over eighty years ago, Sound Beach was a quiet, wooded area with scattered summer homes. The dense brush and trees posed a fire risk, prompting a group of residents to take action. On July 4, 1930, at a hotel in New York City, the Sound Beach Fire Department was officially formed. William Harrison, the department's first Chief, conducted early meetings in members' homes. During winter, meetings were held in NYC hotels, while summer gatherings took place in Sound Beach. As administrative duties expanded, Angelo Ankener was elected as the first department president.

Building a Fire Service

The department’s first piece of firefighting equipment was a Ford Chemical Engine, purchased from the Elmont Fire Department. Initially stored in an open-air garage at the Sound Beach Property Owners Association Clubhouse on Malba Drive, the truck was later moved to "The Square" in the Community House, shared with the Highway and Police Departments.

Fundraising efforts eventually led to the purchase of a brand-new fire truck. However, financial struggles resulted in the truck being repossessed. Determined to keep their fire service alive, firefighters pooled their own money to reclaim it. This challenge ultimately led to the department's incorporation in 1931.

As the community grew, so did the department. In 1939, the department acquired a Diamond “T” rotary gear pumper, which remains a cherished antique and is still proudly displayed at parades and events today.

The Ladies Auxiliary & Community Support

In 1934, the Ladies Auxiliary was formed under the leadership of Mary Ankener. The Auxiliary played a crucial role in supporting the department—both financially and through their dedicated service—helping to purchase equipment and property.

Growth & Expansion

By 1944, the department built its first dedicated headquarters on Sound Beach Boulevard. Over the decades, multiple expansions followed to accommodate the department’s growing needs. The most significant transformation took place in 1989-1990, when a new two-story Fire Headquarters was constructed, replacing parts of the old structure.

Emergency Alert Systems: From Fire Rings to Modern Tech

In its early years, the department relied on fire rings—large iron rings made from train rails—positioned throughout town. Residents spotting a fire would strike these rings with an iron maul, relaying location codes that echoed across town. One of these historic fire rings still stands behind Fire Headquarters as a memorial to past firefighters, where Memorial Day services are held.

The fire ring system was eventually replaced by electric sirens, which sounded for over five minutes to alert firefighters. Today, the department utilizes state-of-the-art radio and pager systems, providing precise alerts and locations. While the siren system remains in place, it has been reduced to two sirens that briefly sound only during the day, ensuring firefighters receive alerts even if radio communications are disrupted.

The Formation of the Fire District

By 1956, the department recognized that fundraising alone—through events like carnivals and bingo nights—was no longer enough to cover rising operational costs. The residents of Sound Beach successfully petitioned the Brookhaven Town Board to establish the Sound Beach Fire District, governed by a five-member Board of Fire Commissioners.

Training the Next Generation

In 1969, the Junior Fire Department was formed to inspire and train future firefighters. A decade later, on June 7, 1979, the Suffolk County Executive officially recognized the Sound Beach Fire Department for its service. The department celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1980 with a parade, carnival, and other community events.

A Modern Fire & Rescue Fleet

From a single fire truck in 1930, the Sound Beach Fire Department has grown into a modern fleet of 15 vehicles and one boat, ensuring the safety of our residents. Our fleet includes:

• 4 Pumpers
• 1 Brush Truck
• 1 Rescue Truck
• 1 Rehab Unit
• 2 Ambulances
• 3 Chiefs' Cars
• 1 Fire/Rescue Boat
• 1 Antique Fire Engine (1939 Diamond "T")
• 4 Support Vehicles

With four-wheel drive capabilities on many vehicles, including both ambulances and one pumper, our department remains fully operational even in severe snow emergencies.

Looking Ahead

From humble beginnings to a fully equipped fire and EMS service, the Sound Beach Fire Department remains dedicated to protecting our community. As we continue to grow and evolve, we honor the legacy of those who built this department and look forward to serving Sound Beach for generations to come.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about our history. If you would like to learn more or have historical information to share, please contact us. We will continue to update this page as new research is conducted.