New Volunteer Firefighters Boost Upper Moreland’s Emergency Response

In Upper Moreland, Pennsylvania, the local fire department has welcomed a dozen new volunteer firefighters, significantly enhancing its capacity to respond to emergencies. Among these volunteers are Nashea “Nash” Fable, Laura Norris, and Alfredo Oliveira, each motivated by personal experiences and a desire to give back to their community. Fire Chief Edward Glassman commended their contributions, noting that during a severe storm in June, the new volunteers helped the department manage 28 incidents in just 90 minutes.

Fulfilling a Commitment to Community

Fable, 28, has lived in Upper Moreland since childhood. After completing her master’s degree in communications from Temple University and establishing a career in the insurance industry, she sought a way to give back to the community that shaped her. The call for volunteers from the Upper Moreland Fire Department resonated with her deeply.

“I asked myself, ‘What could I give back to my community that helped raise me?’” Fable shared. She is currently completing her training and has found the experience transformative. Learning skills like prying open doors and operating a saw has empowered her. During live burn training, she faced an intense environment, reaching over 500 degrees. “I had to ask myself, ‘Do I run out of this building, or do I put out this fire?’” she recalled. The teamwork involved in extinguishing the flames was exhilarating, and she values the friendships she has developed within the firehouse.

Embracing New Challenges

Laura Norris, 40, was inspired to join the fire department after moving from Philadelphia to Upper Moreland with her family. The need for volunteers caught her attention, and she wanted to become an integral part of her new community. With her husband being a firefighter in Philadelphia, she understood the challenges ahead. Yet, the support from fellow firefighters and the excellent training provided have made her feel capable and confident.

“The adrenaline kicked in whenever the siren went off, and we were rushing to make sure people were okay,” Oliveira said. “It was great to be helpful, to be able to make a difference.” He highlighted a moment when he and Norris responded to a home where a tree had fallen through the roof, showcasing the vital role volunteers play in emergency situations.

Alfredo Oliveira, 42, brought a longstanding commitment to becoming a first responder. Growing up in Brazil, he faced a life-threatening car accident, from which firefighters rescued him. His determination to serve as a firefighter intensified when his son experienced an electric shock, and EMTs came to the rescue. After establishing a successful cleaning company, he found the time to pursue firefighting, emphasizing the flexibility of volunteering.

“I can always respond or help at the station, but volunteering is flexible,” he noted. “When I can’t, it’s okay.” Oliveira also cherishes the camaraderie he has found at the firehouse, stating, “Now, I have a lot of good friends at the fire station, and I love to be there.”

The Upper Moreland Fire Department is actively seeking more volunteers to further bolster its emergency response capabilities. Training and gear are provided at no cost, along with the possibility of overnight stipends. Interested individuals can learn more and sign up at uppermorelandfire.org.

As these new firefighters continue to grow in their roles, they embody the spirit of community service, demonstrating that anyone can make a difference through commitment and teamwork.