Community Corner
'Every Day Is Different’ As A First Responder, Says Fire Chief
It's a "privilege to serve [the] community and the people in it," says Fire Chief Steve Malone, who has been with the district since 2001.
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 Fire Chief Steve Malone of the Manhattan Fire Protection District to learn more about the department, life as a firefighter and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Manhattan Fire Protection District?
Fire Chief Malone: The Manhattan Fire District protects and serves approximately 149 square miles, which includes the Village of Manhattan, the Village of Peotone and areas of Jackson Township, Manhattan Township, Wilton Township, Will Township, Peotone Township and Green Garden Township.
We are an “all-hazards” fire district, responding to fires, emergency medical calls, hazardous
materials incidents, auto accidents, technical rescue incidents, water rescue incidents and any
public service calls. We are a part of MABAS Division 19.
In 2023, we successfully consolidated with the Peotone Fire District, something that is almost unheard of in the fire service. This consolidation was done for efficiency and to increase service levels. Our 2022, 2023 [and] 2024 calls for service have significantly increased; 1,644 (2022), 2,293 (2023) and 2,734 (2024), respectively. About 70 percent of our calls are EMS and auto accidents. The District’s Standard of Cover/Community Risk Assessment is located on our website.
What does a typical day look like for a firefighter in Manhattan?
Fire Chief Malone: In the fire service, every day is different; that’s part of the excitement — you never know what you will encounter.
Here at Manhattan, the firefighters start their day by checking the apparatus, equipment and personal protective equipment to ensure readiness for emergency response. We have a “roll call” to discuss what the day will look like operationally and review the training and event expectations for the day. The firefighters will shop for the day at a local store while remaining in-service for calls. They pay for their meals with their own money.
We train every day, and we average eight emergency calls per day. Physical fitness is also a normal part of the firefighter’s day. We focus on functional movements to support firefighter longevity in this career. Our people are our No. 1 asset.
What inspired you to get involved with the Manhattan Fire Protection District?
Fire Chief Malone: I began my career here as a volunteer firefighter in 2001. Many of my friends were on the department, and it seem[ed] like the excitement I was looking for. I worked at the Speedway at the time, and fortunately, I was given the opportunity to join once I saw what a great organization Manhattan truly was.
Once I saw what giving back and serving the community was, I was hooked — and I have been here since. I have worked [in] seven other fire districts over my career, but I never forgot that Manhattan was home and gave me my start. I was one of the first three full-time firefighters hired in 2007 (when the district went full-time), promoted to Lieutenant in 2010, Deputy Chief in 2015 and Chief in 2019. I also served as the District’s Training Officer for 10 years. This community is like no other and has been a great supporter of the Fire District.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Manhattan community?
Fire Chief Malone: I love how supportive and loyal people are to this town. Everyone is willing to help anyone. Even though the town is growing, it still maintains a small-town feel. Also, the working relationships between all the taxing bodies is like no other. We all work together and meet monthly to discuss how we can continue to support the community while being fiscally responsible. I love meeting new people and seeing so many familiar faces around town, and I truly love how this community supports the children of this community.
Can you share a memorable experience from your time with the department?
Fire Chief Malone: I have had several throughout my career. Not all of them were great, but you learn from them, and both the good and the bad experiences have helped develop me into a more well-rounded person, both personally and professionally.
There are rewarding moments for sure, but seeing the firefighters taking care of the people of this community, like carrying groceries for an elderly woman, is by far the thing that makes me honored to be the Fire Chief.
What advice would you offer to someone considering becoming a first responder?
Fire Chief Malone: This profession is like no other. You get the PRIVILEGE to serve your community and the people in it, while learning both hands-on skills and personal soft skills, which will make you a better person overall. We provide a “road map” for the fire service, which can help you along, and we invest in our people.
Start by coming in to talk with us! We offer an unpaid intern program [that] can transition into a part-time position, then hopefully one day [into] a full-time firefighter. Make smart decisions now, because they can affect your career down the road. Work on your face-to-face communication skills, as you will be interacting with people every day in person, not via phone. Put the work in, PERIOD! We will help guide you.
More About the Manhattan Fire Protection District
The Manhattan Fire Protection District offers several ways for individuals to get involved, including:
- Employment opportunities, including both full-time and part-time career paths, as well as an internship program for young adults currently enrolled in a qualified school or course.
- Public education courses, including CPR and babysitting classes, to help equip Manhattan residents with essential life skills.
- Senior programs to empower older adults and support them in living safely and independently.
For more information, visit the Manhattan Fire Protection District 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.
