Profiles in Volunteerism: Junior Firefighter Joe Pryor

Name: Joe Pryor

Age: 14

Lives in: Hellertown

Job: Junior Firefighter

Fire company: Dewey Fire Company No. 1

Training so far: Modules 1 & 2

What's being a volunteer firefighter like?

“I love it because it’s something for me to do besides go home and just sit around. A lot of other kids wouldn’t normally pay attention to it. told me about it and I said, “I’ll do it!” I’ve always liked working with my hands, helping people out, and being outdoors. It’s a lot of fun.”

How do your loved ones feel about you putting your life in danger?

“My mom and my dad were very happy that I wanted to do something like this. It keeps me out of trouble. I’ve always wanted to do something like this. My parents were happy when I said I joined. My mom worries but all moms are like that.”

Tell us a story you'll never forget about your firefighting experience.

“There are a lot of funny stories. The one I won’t forget is when we had a fight with water extinguishers. That was funny. There are a couple of other ones but I think that’s one of the top ones.”

What would you tell people interested in joining your fire company?

“Do it. Just join. If you don’t like it, you don’t have to. It’s great but if you’re not into it, that’s fine. It’s just something to try out. For anyone who is my age, don’t be afraid. If you’re going to come in, don’t be shy because we’re like a big, happy family here. Everybody in this department is a great guy and they’ll have your back.”