Live-In Program Spotlight: Meet EMT Joe Redmon
At Kensington Volunteer Fire Department, we offer the unique opportunity for passionate volunteers to live at Station 5 while serving as Volunteer Firefighters or EMTs. Our Fire Department Live-In Program provides free housing, hands-on experience, and a chance to make a real impact in Montgomery County.
We recently caught up with Joe Redmon – Volunteer EMT, ambulance driver, chaplain, and current live-in member – to hear about his journey and what makes the program so rewarding.
Why Did You Choose to Join the Fire Department Live-In Program?
I became interested in the live-in program several months ago. We have numerous benefits for live-in members, and we’re eager to rebuild the program with passionate, community-minded individuals.
In the past, we have had as many as 14 members in the program, all of whom had a real hunger to help the local community. Those live-ins have since moved on with their careers, and we’re now looking to bring in the next generation of young and enthusiastic providers. If new recruits can see how rewarding it is to be a live-in, we can grow the program back to what it once was and beyond.
What’s a Typical Day Like in the KVFD Live-In Program?
Since we have career personnel here on weekdays, I’m able to work at my day job. For the evening shifts, I make sure the ambulance is staffed and help fill in when necessary. I also help teach the skills and drills that our newer members need to become proficient in. Additionally, I assist with any cleaning tasks and ride four shifts per week, often filling different roles, such as a driver or the officer in charge of the ambulance.
How Has Living at the Fire Station Improved Your Skills as a Volunteer EMT?
Helping to teach those who are going through the training process has also greatly improved my own skills. In this profession, muscle memory is essential, and practicing these skills on a regular basis has helped me immeasurably.
How Has Being a Live-In Volunteer Increased Your Involvement at KVFD?
Being a live-in member puts me in a wonderful position to assist newer volunteers with their checkoff packets. We have a mentor system in place, and I personally help shepherd 5 or 6 trainees through the training process. Since we’re usually on the same shifts, I’m always on call and available to answer questions and offer support.
What Makes the Kensington Fire Department Live-In Program Stand Out?
The mentorship and guidance here are unmatched. For example, I plan to further my career with Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS), and at KVFD, I can ask veterans about the next step in my career. There’s no resource more valuable than a member who’s been through a similar journey you’re on. The Fire Chief, Captains, Lieutenants, and Shift Officers are always available to answer questions. We have a saying at every firehouse: “If you have a question, go ask the ‘old, fat guy with the big mustache’ – they’ve always got the answer.”
We’re a big family here at Station 5 and when one of us succeeds, we all do.
How Has the Live-In Program Helped You Connect with Montgomery County and the Local Community?
I was born and raised here in the Bethesda-Chevy Chase and Kensington area, so I enjoy helping my neighbors when they might be having their worst day. There has been more than one occasion when I’ve seen someone after transporting them, and they’ve thanked our team for being so professional and caring. There is no doubt that Fire/Rescue and EMS events can be stressful for our neighbors, and it’s rewarding to give back to the community in such a meaningful way.
What Advice Would You Give to Someone Considering the KVFD Live-In Program?
For anyone thinking about Fire/Rescue or EMS, whether as a volunteer or a career, I highly recommend jump-starting your journey as a live-in member at KVFD. It’s a rare opportunity to immerse yourself into the heart of the action– where you can ask questions, hone your skills, ride on countless calls, build your confidence, make new friends, and most importantly, have fun!. After four years, I’m still amazed at how blessed I am to ride a million-dollar apparatus, lights and sirens blazing, with the chance to make a real difference. It’s an incredible experience, and I hope to see you at the station soon!
Join the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department Live-In Program
Ready to take the leap and become a live-in volunteer like Joe? Learn more about our Live-In Program or visit our Join Page for more information on how to apply!
Stay tuned for more spotlights of our dedicated volunteers!
