Retiree Found New Beginning as Volunteer Firefighter

Toms River— For many, goal-setting and picking up a new hobby or skill at the start of a new year can be daunting. For Toms River Fire District No. 1 volunteer firefighter, Thomas DePaola, 58, it felt natural.

After moving to Toms River full-time once he retired, DePaola was not prepared for the slowed activity after the summer season.

“Since the part of Toms River where I live is largely a seasonal area, a lot of my friends here go home at the end of the summer,” he said. “I needed to find something to get me out of the house.”

Though firefighting was not his first thought when looking for a new activity, DePaola joined Ocean Beach Fire Company at age 54. When meeting with Chief Drew Calvo and other members, he was instantly hooked.

“I thought about joining to help out with fundraising, but Chief Calvo convinced me I would be a good firefighter,” he said. “So, I enrolled in the fire academy and never looked back.”

While it was surreal to be in a classroom again, DePaola made the most of his fire school experience. “I was in my classes with people as young as 18 years old,” he said. “They learned a lot from me, and I was able to keep up with them in our training, if not surpass some of them.”

Throughout fire school, DePaola faced a health issue, but the department supported him every step of the way. He graduated the academy on-time, and has even gone one to earn additional certifications, and join the search and rescue underwater dive team.

“Eventually, I want to earn my Driver/Operator certification. I know I can achieve that because the district pays for all of our training, and I know everyone has my back,” he said.

As for what keeps DePaola coming back as a volunteer, it’s the friendships, and the connection with the community. “The public is so grateful when you show up to ensure their safety,” DePaola said. “Even though a lot of calls are just for general fire or smoke alarms, they are so appreciative.”

“Anyone can get involved. I’m currently a Trustee on the Board of Trustees, and there is plenty to do on the administrative side,” said DePaola. “We always need help with managing rental halls, building maintenance, fundraising, and help on the fire ground.”

DePaola did not stay retired for long; he currently works in operations for Elite Vehicle Solutions, a vehicle upfitting team, working on EMS vehicles, police cars and other apparatus. “I never would have gotten my current position if it weren’t for becoming a firefighter. I wish I had started firefighting sooner,” he said.

“Firefighting can be intimidating, especially when you’re first starting out,” DePaola said. “If you follow the training, you’ll be alright.”

“Volunteering for District No.1 is for everyone, no matter their background or experience,” said Ocean Beach Fire Company Chief, Drew Calvo. “We have plenty of opportunities to get involved, even for those who are seasonal residents.”

Toms River Fire District No.1 is comprised of 4 stations: Toms River Fire Company #1, Toms River Fire Company #2, East Dover Fire Company, and Ocean Beach Fire Company. All companies are seeking ambitious individuals to join their team as firefighters, junior firefighters, administrative members and seasonal volunteers.

To get started on your volunteer journey for the new year, visit trfire.org to fill out an inquiry form.