The Wildwood Fire Department traces its roots to the early 20th century, evolving from volunteer companies into a modern career–volunteer department. Holly Beach Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 was formed in 1884 Wildwood Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 was established in 1896 In 1912, the Boroughs of Holly Beach and Wildwood consolidated to form the City of Wildwood .

In January 1913, Charles Nickerson was elected Chief of the Wildwood Fire Department, with Harry Dunham as Assistant Chief. The department initially operated as a volunteer force. In 1932, the volunteers were replaced by a fully paid fire department, and William Letts was appointed Chief After a few years, with changes in city leadership, the volunteer system was reinstated, Daniel Speigel is the current Chief of dept.

Today, the Wildwood Fire Department is a combination-type department with a career division (about 24 career firefighters) and a volunteer division (Holly Beach Fire Company No. 1 and Wildwood Fire Company No. 1) . It provides fire protection, emergency medical services (BLS level), and fire prevention education, serving a population of around 5,100 year-round, with seasonal surges to 40,000 during summer

From its volunteer origins in the late 1800s to its current career–volunteer model, the Wildwood Fire Department has adapted to meet the needs of a growing coastal community, maintaining a strong tradition of public service and safety. Current plans are that a new Pierce Enforcer Engine has been ordered.