Community Corner
From Junior Firefighter To Captain: A Lifelong Dedication To Service
Inspired by "bravery and camaraderie," Timothy Seitz of the Tolland Fire Department recalls his journey from junior firefighter to Captain.
First responders are a vital part of our communities, keeping us safe and playing an integral role in daily life. Patch and T-Mobile have partnered on a Ride-Along series to showcase the important work these departments and individuals do every day.
We had the opportunity to speak with Timothy Seitz, Captain of the Tolland Fire Department, to learn more about the department, life as a firefighter and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Tolland Fire Department?
Captain Seitz: The Tolland Fire Department serves the town of Tolland, CT, a small community located approximately 20 miles northeast of Hartford, CT. We cover a geographical boundary of 41 square miles and a population of approximately 15,000 residents. The fire department is a combination-style department consisting of both career firefighters and volunteer firefighters. The career personnel staff work Monday-Friday from 0600-1800 hours, which is typically when most of the volunteers are working their normal full-time jobs. Nights from 1800-0600 and weekends are covered by the volunteer staff through duty shifts.
The department operates out of four stations strategically placed throughout the town to provide all residents with appropriate fire protection. The department runs a squad (rescue-pumper), ladder truck, three engines [and] two tankers, as well [as] operating two ambulances at the BLS (Basic Life Support) level.
What does a typical day look like for a firefighter in Tolland?
Captain Seitz: The career staff for the Tolland Fire Department work staggered schedules, with the earliest shift beginning at 0600 hours and the latest shift beginning at 1000 hours. The typical day for a firefighter in Tolland is that once their shift begins, they complete their gear and equipment checks assigned for the day. They will check in with the Captain for any outstanding assignments or tasks in excess of the routine checks. The department as a whole runs about 2,000 calls for service per year, so they will be staffing the ambulance or one of the fire apparatus, depending on the type of call for service.
We participate in training depending on the schedule and calls [and] complete proper documentation of calls and equipment checks. They have the ability to utilize the department gym for one hour during the shift to stay in proper physical condition, and we also complete small maintenance tasks around the station and necessary cleaning to keep our workplace clean.
What inspired you to pursue a career in firefighting?
Captain Seitz: My family comes from a long line of public service. My grandfather was a volunteer firefighter in his hometown, my father was a police dispatcher for his entire career and [I have] family members who served in the military. Public service has always been a part of my life.
I was a high school student when September 11th occurred, and I was amazed by the stories of bravery and camaraderie that came from that. As soon as I was eligible to join my local volunteer fire department, I joined as a junior firefighter. I took my EMT and attended the regional fire schools to become certified as a firefighter. I have been a volunteer there for the last 22 years and am currently the Fire Chief. I worked as a dispatcher for both [the] Police/Fire/EMS agency as well as Life Star when I decided to pursue a career in firefighting, ending up in Tolland and promoting to Captain in 2023.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Tolland community?
Captain Seitz: The Tolland community is a small town community and always has the residents' best interests at heart. Our fire chief is a long-time resident and has instilled in all of us to go above and beyond where possible for our residents when they call in their time of need. That sense of community within the town involves us in many community events where we can interact with the community, and they can learn about the fire department and its staff and members. Even after tragedy strikes one of our residents, it’s amazing to see the community band together to help in any way possible.
Can you share a memorable experience from your time with the department?
Captain Seitz: There are so many rewarding experiences from my time with the Tolland Fire Department. The most memorable experiences for me come from seeing residents I have been able to make a positive impact on when they have called for a fire or medical emergency. That is what makes public service work extraordinarily rewarding.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career in firefighting?
Captain Seitz: If you are interested in pursuing a career in firefighting or EMS, I would recommend finding a local volunteer fire department or ambulance service and pursuing your EMT certification first. From there, take your certification classes for firefighting and keep yourself in good physical condition. This field of work is not for everyone as it is physically and mentally demanding; however, it can be a unique and rewarding career.
More About the Tolland Fire Department
The Tolland Fire Department offers several ways for individuals to get involved and explore career opportunities in firefighting:
- Volunteer firefighters and EMTs — The department is always seeking new volunteer members.
- Special membership opportunities — Opportunities are available for those in the community who have specialized skills or administrative experience and want to get involved.
- UCONN student volunteers — University of Connecticut students are welcome to volunteer with the department and gain practical experience alongside Fire and EMS personnel.
- Explorer program — This program is offered for youth in the community, ages 14-18, to learn about firefighting and public safety.
Both explorer and membership applications are available to be picked up Monday-Friday from 0800-1630 hours at the Tolland Fire Department Training Center, located at 191 Merrow Road, Tolland, CT 06084.
For more information, visit the Tolland Fire Department website and explore opportunities to serve your community!
Learn About T-Priority, America’s best 5G network experience for first responders:
T-Priority is T-Mobile’s exclusive program designed to provide first responders with the best 5G network experience. This program prioritizes fast, reliable service even during high network congestion, ensuring that first responders stay connected when it matters most. In addition, T-Mobile offers special discounts to first responders on eligible plans, helping them save while staying connected with America's best 5G network.
Get more information about T-Priority and the first responder discounts here.
