Our Story

It All Began With a Committment

Fire Shield Fire Protection was founded by Nelson Ligon, whose vision took shape in 1985 from a modest office in Dallas, Texas.

Nelson’s journey in fire protection started at Lewis Fire Equipment, where he rose from technician to service manager. Despite his success, Nelson felt a deeper calling. “I had been with Lewis Fire Equipment for five years, holding a great position, but I knew there was something more,” he recalls. “I felt led to make a firm commitment to serve the Lord, and through prayer, I was inspired to start my own fire protection business—thus, Fire Shield was born.”

From that moment forward, Fire Shield has been dedicated to protecting people and property with unmatched expertise and care.

Whatever you do, do your work heartily,
as for the Lord rather than for men

 Colosians 3:23

The Early Years

Getting Fire Shield off the ground wasn’t easy. With limited resources, Nelson relied on the support of a friend to launch his business. “It was 1984 and I was using the Brinson Fire & Safety name, invoices, and bank account to get my own business off the ground. It took about a year to make the switch, but in 1985 Fire Shield was now a reality.”

However, Nelson quickly realized that running a business came with its own set of challenges. When I first got started, I let money and fear rule my decisions,” he admits. Supporting his wife, daughter, and twin boys made the early years especially tough. “I found myself far too often justifying decisions that were not based upon integrity in order to survive.”

These tough beginnings helped shape the company’s core values of integrity and commitment to safety.

1979 Lewis Fire Equipment Service Tag
1985 Fire Shield Service Tag

A Decision to Live by God's Word

Nelson attributes much of his personal and business growth during this time to his renewed faith in Jesus Christ. “When I looked at both myself and the business, I realized I had to make the decision to live by God’s word, no matter the outcome.”

By putting his faith into action, Nelson saw Fire Shield begin to thrive, and life became more stable. “It’s not just about talking about God; it’s about living for Him,” Nelson explains. “Without Godly principles, you won’t succeed in the long run.” This faith-based approach continues to be a cornerstone of Fire Shield’s values and success.

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Nelson Ligon circa 1985
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Bill Ligon in front of the original shop circa 1985

A Legacy of Protection

Fire Shield has grown into a thriving family business, with not only Nelson’s children but now his grandchildren becoming part of its legacy. Over the years, we’ve expanded beyond fire extinguisher services to offer kitchen suppression systems and life safety supplies, establishing Fire Shield Fire Protection, Inc. as a trusted leader. “We’ve made it our business to protect the things our customers value most,” says Nelson.

From the early days of knocking on doors to our personalized, one-on-one approach with every client, Nelson reflects, “We didn’t get to this place by taking an easy road. We have been blessed by the grace of God, the hardest working employees, and the best customers you could ask for in this industry. I am very fortunate.”
While our roots are in North Texas, our mission to provide top-quality fire protection goes beyond regional borders. We believe that everyone, no matter where they are, should have access to the best fire protection to safeguard their loved ones and assets.

What started in a garage has become a source of safety and trust for generations. Our family’s commitment to protecting yours is stronger than ever.

Today, Fire Shield Fire Protection, Inc., based in Lake Dallas, Texas, remains committed to both our long-standing and new customers. Whether you need portable fire extinguisher servicing or kitchen suppression systems, you can count on us.

some of our trusted Clients

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