Type of Organization

Combination Fire Rescue Department

Job Function

Firefighter

Years in Fire/EMS:

12

Primary Fire/EMS Department:

Perkasie Fire Company No. 1

Years With Department/Agency

less than year

Dept. Web Site:

http://perkasiefd.org/

Web Site:

http://www.ussartf.org

Other Past or Current Departments and Organizations

Special Security Police, Fedrated Stores; Loss Prevention Specialist

My Training:

C.I.S.M/D, FEMA Community Emergncy Respone Terrorism LEVEL 2, Aircreaft Rescue, Crime Scene Preservation and Testimony, Rope Rescue 1, OC Pepper Foam Instructor for Emergencyy Services Personnel, I.e Law enforment, Search and Rescue, Animal Rescue/First Aid, Human First Aid CPR Provider level, unltimate training was real life response to Sept 11, 2001, WTC, Certifiedd Master Hypno-Therapist and Instructor. Pilot VFR right now going for IFR rating soon

About Me:

I have been told to mind my business all my youth becasue I wanted to help or get involved, so as an adult I made making other peoples emergencies my business, whether assisting in emotional crisis, making arrests, fighting fires, finding for the lost, and Instruction. Now no one can tell me to mind my business, as it is my business to be inolved. I have worked vs. volunteered at a 50/50 ratio, throughout my life. I love the adrenaline, the personal sense of accomplishment, and the pride I know my 21 yr old son, and wife and friends/family seem to have for me. I know they know if it has to be done regardless of the commitment or investment in time and energy call Big Matt,or Uncle Big.

Day Job:

Hypnotherapist

Relationship Status:

Married

Why I Joined Fire/EMS

becasue I believe in the Fire Service, all of it. I love the Brother/Sisterhood. Fire Fighting gave me an opportunity to learn, respond and make a difference that makes me happier than I have ever been, for me this is very signifigant, as I was told when returning from Sept 11 response my deteriorating health would preclude me from Fire Fighting, Search and Rescue, or much anything else. I alomst bought that lie, however I am back with a renewed vigore and dedication. I want to share what I have experienced and learned, before my time responding and livng has come to an end.

Why I Love Fire/EMS

for the same reasons I joined and I love the the adrenaline, did I mention the rush of adrenaline. I like challenging myslef and succesfully negotiating a task/assgnment/response

Top Issues Facing Responders:

Ignorance. Public and Internal
Jealosy, sterotyping, clicks.
Ego instead of brains and training.
lack of Physical fitness/training