NVFC Member Spotlight: Barry Kushnir

Name: Barry Kushnir
Title: Firefighter
Department: Wanamassa Fire Company
Location: Ocean Township, NJ

Why are you an NVFC member?
I am interested in learning more about the volunteer fire service and engaging with other volunteer firefighters. I’m a new(ish) volunteer firefighter who grew up in a community using career firefighters, and would like to become more fully engaged in the volunteer community since my career commenced.

What is your occupation?
Retired

Why are you a fire service volunteer?
I have always wanted to become a firefighter, but life turned out differently. Beginning a family at a very young age and working many hours in a blue-collar job as a result prevented me from having a career in the fire service. You see, my community utilized career firefighters. However, I moved to a community that utilized volunteer firefighters much later in life and inquired about the roadmap to becoming a volunteer firefighter. Despite an initial pause, I successfully completed a fire police certification and later the fire academy, and have completed my dream of joining the fire service as a firefighter.

Service to the community has been a key building block in my foundation as a young man. I attended a Jesuit high school, which reinforced service to others. My service to the community continued as a labor activist for over 30 years. My union worked with community organizations to support good jobs, equality, and justice in our communities.

The fire service aligns itself with many of the same ideals, and firefighters play a key role in our communities. These brave public servants put their own lives at risk in order to save lives, protect property, and mitigate the damage of disasters. Furthermore, firefighters educate the public concerning safety in the community and make sure our neighbors have the knowledge to stay safe.

I have always shown great respect for the service of firefighters and have always hoped to find a way to contribute to the mission of the fire service. The Wanamassa Fire Company in Ocean Township, NJ, helped me fulfill a dream. The fire company welcomed me despite my advanced age (53 at the time) and helped me stay the course despite having to initially remove myself from the fire academy due to family concerns (I have 3- and 4-year-olds that need me at home). Chief Ed Horn continued to encourage me to serve in the fire police and eventually helped me re-enter the local fire academy when a more sustainable schedule popped up. I will never forget the help and will always remain dedicated to the men and women in my fire company, as well as the fire service.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?
2023

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
My first fire in Asbury Park, NJ, was quite memorable. However, I would like to highlight some less “hot” moments that have provided memorable moments.

I have had the honor to represent the Wanamassa Fire Company in various capacities. I found it particularly satisfying to volunteer for Fire Prevention Week, helping educate young folks in the community about fire safety. I also enjoyed working at a fair at my daughter’s school, helping her and the children of her elementary school interact with the apparatus. Finally, I enjoyed working on similar assignments in other schools with disabled children and adults, helping folks become more comfortable interacting with the equipment and gear a firefighter may be wearing during a fire event.

To be honest, I am living a dream and every moment as a firefighter has been and continues to be memorable.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
Our fire company quite often responds to fire and carbon monoxide alarms in private residential homes. The firefighters have explained some of the causes of and solutions for an alarm call.

I have personally responded to fire calls, putting water in a fire to knock it down. However, I have also responded to water issues in homes due to frozen pipes exploding. Downed power lines are always a concern in my community. Finally, I find it extremely satisfying to be able to take part in demonstrations for younger folks in the community in order to educate children on fire safety.

What practices help you stay physically and mentally strong for your crew?
Physical fitness and mental acuity are highly desirable for a firefighter. The job is both mentally and physically demanding, so you must be on top of your game. I make it a priority to include exercise in my daily routine, ranging from running/jogging for cardiovascular fitness to strength training with weights. I also take classes at the local fire academy and read about the latest information about the fire service from books and periodicals. Our company also has trainings, and I often take it upon myself to head down to the firehouse and become more familiar with the equipment as well as pick the brains of my officers and other senior firefighters.

Interested in serving your community? Find volunteer fire service opportunities at www.MakeMeAFirefighter.org.