Fire Rescue Department History | City of Coconut Creek

Department History

2024	Brian Blizzard is appointed as Fire Chief.
2024	Coconut Creek Fire Rescue received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services (CAAS). This prestigious accreditation highlights Coconut Creek Fire Rescue's commitment to maintaining the highest standards in emergency medical services, reinforcing our dedication to excellence and continuous improvement.
2024	In 2024, Coconut Creek Fire Rescue published our first community driven 5-Year Strategic Plan. This plan will guide our focused efforts, providing a clear vision and direction for the department's future. More information can be found on our website under the 'Five-Year Strategic Plan' section.
2022	Coconut Creek Fire Rescue earned the distinction of Class 1 Public Protection Classification rating by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), the highest achievable score.
2021	Temporary Fire Station 113 was put into service, providing fire and rescue service for Main Street and the center of the city. The fire rescue contract with the City of Margate ended, which concluded a twenty-one year partnership. Under the leadership of City Manager Karen Brooks and the City Commission, Coconut Creek Fire Rescue becomes Broward County’s newest Fire Department.
2021	Jeffery Gary is appointed as Fire Chief.

2017	Fire Station 50 opens, proudly serving South Creek.
2015	Jeffery Gary is promoted to Fire Marshal and now oversees the Coconut Creek Fire Administration Department.
2015	Fire Marshal Rodney Zancanata retires after 34 years in the fire service.
2013	Rodney Zancanata is promoted to Fire Marshal.
2013	Fire Chief Steven Pollio retires after 33 years in the fire service.
2012	The Margate-Coconut Creek Fire Department earns an ISO (Insurance Services Office) Class I rating, ranking in the top 1% of fire departments in the country.
2000	The City of Coconut Creek signed a contract with the City of Margate to provide Fire Rescue Services.
2000	Steven Pollio is appointed as Fire Chief.
1993	The Public Safety North Substation was constructed (Fire Station 94)
1990	George LaFlam was named Director of the Public Safety Department.
1982	The Coconut Creek Public Safety Department was established. John Whalen was the first Public Safety Director and was in charge of both police and fire activities.
1972	The City of Coconut Creek’s Volunteer Fire Department was created. Don Schlichtmann was the first Volunteer Fire Chief. Some of the founding members were Art Doethlaff, Neal Henderson, Bill Herder, Joe Merindion, and Walter Culbreth.