The Brigantine Fire Department was established in 1926 under the direction of Chief John Rothwell, Sr.  At that time there were four fire fighters who worked 72 hours per week.  The top rate of pay was $1,800 per year.  The island population was about 500 people.

The first fire house was located at 5th Street North.  There were two pieces of equipment: a combination pumper, hose and ladder truck was purchased new and a used 750 gallon pumper. Neither unit had a cab or windshield.

In 1935 the fire house was moved to 36th Street and was relocated to the present  Municipal Building location in 1973 at 1417 W. Brigantine Avenue.

BRIGANTINE FIRE CHIEFS

John Rothwell Sr.                               1926-1930

Robert Ockenlander                            1945-1971

Byard T. Sheldon                                1972-1973

George Graham                                   1973-1981

Ernie Westcoatt                                  1981-1986

Darry Platt                                          1986-1997

Charles Boyer                                     1997-1999

Stan Cwiklinski                                   1999-2008

                          John Frugoli                            2008-Present