The Merrick Fire Department (est. 1922) serves the Merrick area, down to the Coast Guard station, as well as the West End. The department consists of three houses: Hook & Ladder Co. No.1 for ladder and rescue, Empire Hose Co. No.3 featuring 2 engines and Friendship Engine, for engine and rescue. A volunteer company, members take part in numerous community events, such as holiday parades, and offer services for the Jones Beach Air Show.
Empire Hose is part of the Merrick Fire Department, consisting of two engines. The front of the firehouse was redone in 1994. Located across from Merrick Library, Empire features a program for juniors, ages 13-18, who have an interest in firefighting. Juniors train in basic firefighting techniques, work in the community, and go on informative field trips. Stop by the house Thursday nights after 7:30 p.m.
Friendship Engine and Hose Company is part of the Merrick Fire Department. The station front is still standing, and has been since 1922. The company has four trucks-2 engines and 2 ambulances. It is an all-volunteer company. Its members take part in the annual Nassau County and Battalion parades. The company also helps with Robbie's Run, an annual event to raise money for the Robbie Levine Foundation, in memory of a local little leaguer who died suddenly in 2005. Anyone interested in joining the department can go to the Web site or stop by every Thursday nights after 7:30 p.m.