On April 4, 1889, thirty one members of the East Islip community came together to form Hook and Ladder Co. # 2. 

In early 1891 the East Islip Hook and Ladder Company responded to a fire at the home of S.T. Peters, one of East Islip's leading citizens. In gratitude for their fine work, Peters provided the East Islip firefighters with their first hose. The hose was set in a two wheel cart that was heavy and ungainly.

On October 15, 1891 Hook and Ladder Co. # 1, realizing the need for additional manpower and equipment, added twenty more members and became Hook and Ladder Co. # 1 and S.T. Peters Hose Company. 

On January 12, 1892 the Hook and Ladder Co. # 1 and S.T. Peters Hose Company were officially designated as the East Islip Fire Department. 

During the early 1900's the members fought many large blazes. Including fires at the Pavillion and Somerset Hotels.

In 1925 the East Islip Fire Department bought its first motorized fire truck, a Maxim Pumper. The new fire engine was put to use soon after it was purchased when a fire broke out at the East Islip Fire House. The damage was contained to the interior of the firehouse.

In 1927 the present firehouse was built out of solid brick on an acre of land. The old firehouse was bought by John Souhrada, who repaired it and moved it to Somerset Ave where it still stands today as an occupied residence.

In April 1939 the department was formed into four companies and the Rescue Squad. The four companies formed were Engine Co. # 1, Engine Co. # 2, Hook & Ladder Co. # 1, and Patrol Co. # 1. 

In February 1995 Patrol Co. # 1 was reorganized and officially renamed 
Heavy Rescue Co. # 1.

There have been many changes in  the East Islip Fire Department over the past 100 plus years.  But the one thing that never changes is the spirit of the devoted men and women who protect and serve their community.