The mission of the Westport Fire Department is to protect life and property through prevention, education, and suppression. T ... he Westport Fire Department began in 1831 when local citizens decided to protect their property and took up a collection to purchase a fire engine. In 1929, the first career firefighters were hired. Today the Department consists of: • 7 Chief Officers • 12 Lieutenants • 2 Inspectors and a Fire Marshal • 44 Uniformed Firefighters • 4 Civilian Dispatchers • 1 Equipment Mechanic • 2 Support Staff • Up to 6 active Volunteer Firefighters The Westport Fire Department is a public safety agency whose mission is to protect lives and property. The mission is achieved through aggressive fire suppression, fire protection and educational activities. This fiscal year the Department will respond to approximately 3,800 emergency calls for service. The Department will respond to approximately 70 fires in structures. Fire Suppression & Rescue Division: This Division consists of four platoons of firefighters protecting the community 24 hours a day. Under the command of an Assistant Fire Chief, the platoon of firefighters responds to all types and varieties of emergencies requiring, knowledge of fire chemistry, building construction, hazardous chemicals, weather, electricity and rescue techniques. Fire Prevention Division: Commanded by Fire Marshal Nathaniel Gibbons, is responsible for fire code enforcement in all public buildings, schools, and multi family buildings. Together with the Fire Suppression and Rescue Division, all members of the department share in the responsibility in public fire safety education Stations and Staffing: We currently staff four stations. In total, we have a Shift Commander, three Lieutenants and eleven Firefighters on duty at all times. In the event of a major fire, weather emergency or other significant event, we will call back additional firefighters and/or officers. read more