Community Corner
Firefighter Shares What It Takes To Protect 140 Square Miles
Being a firefighter evokes "one of the best feelings you can have," says Plymouth Fire Department's Lieutenant Tom Murray.
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 Lieutenant Tom Murray of the Plymouth Fire Department to learn more about the department, life as a firefighter and the impact of their work.
Can you tell us about the Plymouth Fire Department?
Lt. Murray: The Plymouth Fire Department protects the state of Massachusetts' largest town, just shy of 140 square miles. We have seven stations with eight staffed front-line pieces of apparatus, seven engines, one tower truck and a soon-to-be-staffed heavy rescue, bringing the total to nine.
Each truck has a minimum of three firefighters on it, with a normal average shift strength of 32 firefighters and officers. We also have cross-staffed apparatus, which includes two additional ladder trucks, three water tanker trucks, seven specialized forest fire trucks, a 33-foot fireboat and a dive team.
What does a typical day look like for a firefighter in Plymouth?
Lt. Murray: A typical day at the Plymouth Fire Department starts just before 8:00 a.m. We work 24-hour shifts — 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. Arriving before the start of the shift allows for a pass on, or a run-down, from the shift that worked the day before.
The first thing to do is to check all of your personal protective equipment and fire apparatus. Following that is usually the daily cleaning chores of the station, and then either company-level training or other training scenarios — all the while responding to emergency calls.
What inspired you to pursue a career in firefighting?
Lt. Murray: The inspiration or reasoning for becoming a firefighter began as a child for me. Like most children, the flashing lights, loud sirens and — at times, seemingly chaotic — fire scene is what drew me to this profession.
My father also played a part in this as a child, always bringing me around to different fire stations and keeping me in tune with apparatus and industry practices.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Plymouth community?
Lt. Murray: As a Plymouth firefighter, I have the joy, like most, of serving in a community in which I live. Not only I but most of my family members live in Plymouth. This vested interest allows me to reap the rewards of a fulfilling career and lifestyle as a firefighter. Plymouth is a large community with many different challenges, of which most have rewarding outcomes.
What advice would you offer to someone considering a career in firefighting?
Lt. Murray: I would tell anyone looking to pursue a career as a first responder that it's one of the most rewarding and enjoyable job paths there is. Most first responder careers begin with a standardized test and an academy or physical abilities test. These tests can be challenging; however, with the sacrifices and determination, the outcome is one of the best feelings you can have.
More About the Plymouth Fire Department
The Plymouth Fire Department welcomes individuals interested in pursuing a career as a first responder. To apply, you’ll need to meet the following requirements, among others:
- Pass the entry exam, held annually.
- Be a Plymouth resident for one year before the exam date.
For more information, visit the Plymouth Fire Department website and explore opportunities to serve your community!
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Get more information about T-Priority and the first responder discounts here.
