Edward Karl may be the only sane man on the planet who wishes he could put his life in more danger. In his 16 years as a volunteer firefighter, hes had opportunities to risk his life to save others. But since becoming Volunteer Chief, hes had to stay on the sidelines, making sure everything is running smoothly.
Ive been in burning buildings but Ive never felt any danger, Karl said. Its more dangerous to me to know that people are going in and Im not. Knowing that Im not in control, and I cant see what others are doing, is more nerve-wracking.
Karl first joined the Fire Department at the urging of his cousin, who tried to get him to apply right after high school. But Karl decided that completing his education was a priority. As soon as I finished college, he handed me an application and said, You promised, and I signed up, Karl said.
In his years with the department, Edward has worked as a pump, aerial and tanker operator, a fire service instructor, and an incident safety officer. But now, as Chief, he tackles more administrative tasks, like maintaining budgets and making sure the rest of the crew have what they need. Karl still heads out on calls, even when hes not on-duty -- even if hes at his paying gig as a mechanic. But now, he gives the orders, and isn't manning equipment or heading into burning buildings.
Still, Karl loves his work as a firefighter, and finds helping people is its own reward. Its very encouraging when you get calls or letters from the people youve helped, he said. Its a brotherhood about caring for one another. When you get called to a scene and you leave when people are happy and grateful for your help, there is no better feeling."
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