Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue began operations July 1, 1993 as a consolidation of the former Sea Pines Forest Beach Fire Department, the Hilton Head Fire District and the Hilton Head Island Rescue Squad. Hilton Head Island is the largest barrier island off the Atlantic coast with 22,000 acres of semi-tropical low country geography which includes unspoiled sea marshes, creeks, lagoons, forests and 12 miles of beach. Protecting a population of approximately 35,000 full time residents and over a million visitors yearly, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue has 7 fire stations served by an enhanced 911 communications dispatch center. Among Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue's outstanding achievements that we are particularly proud of is that for the 3rd time in 10 years, we have obtained International Accreditation Status from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, Inc. The CFAI is committed to improving fire and emergency service agencies around the world. In order to become accredited, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue has achieved excellence in service and has established a plan for continuous improvement. Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue was named as one of three outstanding communities by the International Association of Fire Chiefs with their Heart Safe Community award in 2010. As an organization, Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue participates in the development of the state fire services by participating in many state programs. Nationally, several members of our staff sit on NFPA technical committees championing fire service professionalism and excellence. Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue has built a reputation for excellence and innovation with the ability to meet the needs of our ever changing community.