Volunteer Spotlight: Francis Brown

Name: Francis Brown
Title: Lieutenant
Department Name: Bearpond Fire Department
Location: Henderson, NC

How long have you been an NVFC member?
Two years

Why are you an NVFC member?
The NVFC has some good information for volunteers.

What is your occupation?
Instructor

Why are you a volunteer firefighter, EMT, or rescue provider?
I began my volunteer career in Boy Scouts in 1972, became an Explorer in 1974, joined on as a firefighter, and have been serving communities and the public ever since. I enjoy helping people in all aspects of emergency services. It doesn’t matter if it is through an emergency situation or education.

What year did you join the fire or emergency services?  
1974

What are your memorable moments as a firefighter or EMS provider?
There are so many. As an EMT it has to be that first save – the patient had gone into cardiac arrest and I was able to bring him back, and he is still walking today. In the fire service it would have to be the situation where I was in the right place at the right time and was able to prevent a situation from happening.

What contributions have you (and your department) made in your community?
I teach a fire and public safety program in a high school. I promote fire and emergency prevention. I have also passed it on to the public through open houses we have held during Fire Prevention Week.

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