The Department of Public Safety ensures the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Wilmington.  The department is comprised of three divisions: emergency management; police; and fire.

Department of Emergency Management

The Office of Emergency Management coordinates the efforts of all city departments and the at-large community to ensure that city officials are prepared to respond quickly and effectively should disaster strike.

Department officials also maintain and administer the Wilmington Emergency Operation Plan, mandated by federal government to receive relief funds for disaster.  The team works hard to keep communications networks, transportation systems, infrastructure facilities, and vital public goods and services flowing to residents and businesses in the city when emergencies occur.

Wilmington Police Department

The Department of Police is authorized to deploy up to 289 officers in motor vehicles, on foot, and on bicycle in order to protect and serve the citizens of the city. It recently joined the ranks of 350 other departments nationwide in achieving operations accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies.

Wilmington Fire Department

The Wilmington Fire Department (WFD) maintains six fire engine companies, two ladder companies, a marine fire fighting force, three ambulances, and one rescue squad.  In recent years, the department has promoted a ride along program which gives city residences an opportunity to evaluate possible career decisions.  In addition, department officials have enacted a program that requires firefighters to be involved with community associations on a regular basis.

Victim Services

Victim Services is a unit of the Wilmington Police Department composed of social workers who work closely with the police to follow up with victims of violent crimes. Services provided include crisis and supportive counseling, information, referrals, and advocacy within the criminal justice system.