Crime & Safety
The Hero Next Door: Matt Novak
Meet Matt Novak, a volunteer firefighter with Hecktown Volunteer Fire Co. No. 1 and this week's 'Hero Next Door.'
Matt Novak, 35, is a volunteer firefighter with . He has been volunteering with the department for 16 years.
Novak, a graduate and resident of Moore Township, works for Service Electric as an installer.
He lives with his wife, Denise, and his newborn daughter, Mekanah.
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What is it like being a firefighter?
“It’s another job -- a job and a hobby all in one.”
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What is your favorite thing about being a firefighter?
“I like the excitement and the feeling of helping people… and the friends that you have in the fire department. It’s another family.”
What made you decide to become a firefighter?
“My friends got me involved, and I’ve liked it ever since.”
How do your loved ones feel about you putting your life on the line?
“My wife [gets] nervous, but she knows we’ll be safe. I want to come home to her.”
What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining the department?
“Come out, give it a shot, and see how you like it. We always need help.”