Fire Department · Career
Longboat Key Fire Rescue
Longboat Key, FL · Manatee County
Longboat Key Fire Rescue serves the Town of Longboat Key, a barrier island spanning the Sarasota and Manatee county line on Florida's Gulf Coast. The department delivers Advanced Life Support (ALS) emergency medical care and fire protection, and provides its own ambulance transport to island residents and visitors.
The department is staffed by 33 line personnel divided across three shifts, backed by six management and administrative staff. Each shift is led by an Assistant Chief with two Lieutenants and eight firefighter/medics, and operates from the island's fire stations, including the North Fire Station at 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive.
Rooted in a 1953 volunteer company, the department has grown into a modern career service focused on rapid response anywhere on the island. Beyond emergency response, it runs community programs such as CPR/AED and Stop the Bleed training, fire prevention, and walk-in blood pressure screenings.
MissionTo protect life and property and the environment by providing exceptional emergency services through training, education and customer service.
The Town of Longboat Key posts employment opportunities through its municipal HR process; the Fire Rescue site itself does not detail a firefighter application procedure. Prospective firefighter/medics should watch the Town of Longboat Key job listings and contact the Fire Rescue administrative office for current openings.
Because the department provides ALS transport, candidates are typically dual-role firefighter/paramedics. Reach the administrative office at 941-316-1944 for details on hiring.
Who leads Longboat Key Fire Rescue?
Fire Chief Paul Dezzi has led the department since 2010.
How is the department staffed?
The department has 33 line personnel split into three shifts plus six management/administrative staff. Each shift consists of one Assistant Chief, two Lieutenants, and eight firefighter/medics.
Does the department provide EMS and ambulance transport?
Yes. Longboat Key Fire Rescue provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) emergency medical services and has run its own ambulance transport service since 1982.
How can I ask about employment or current openings?
The Fire Rescue administrative office can be reached at 941-316-1944; positions are posted through the Town of Longboat Key's hiring process.
Where is the department located?
The administrative office and North Fire Station are at 5490 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228.