Joining Southampton Fire Company is one of the best decisions Rebecca Madara, 19, has made.

“I’ve had the privilege this past year to push my boundaries by working out of my comfort zone and doing things I’ve never done before: learning and experiencing so many new things, meeting a ton of new people, being able to see all of the hard work I put in pay off, and finally, being able to earn my riding status,” said Rebecca.

Always interested in the fire service and helping others in the community, Rebecca joined Southampton Fire Company in October 2023. She then started training and attending the fire academy, graduating with her Firefighter I certification this past May. Since then, she earned her riding status at Southampton, meaning she is now able to go on calls.

“As a new rider, I’ve been able to take all the things I’ve learned from fire school and put them into real life situations,” said Rebecca. “Being able to learn something new on every call I go on makes me excited to keep going to more calls. I can further my experience and keep learning new things that will help better me for the future.”

Rebecca is a full-time college student at Bucks County Community College and works part-time as a barista. She is a health science major and plans to work in the healthcare field. By becoming a volunteer firefighter, Rebecca learned how capable and strong she is when she puts in hard work, and how to come out of her comfort zone.

“More women should join Southampton because us women are just as capable as being great firefighters as anyone else,” she said. “I believe everyone has something to offer to the fire service in a way that will help our community.”

Rebecca encourages other residents in Upper Southampton Township to make a difference and volunteer.

“If you are thinking about joining Southampton Fire Company, do it, even if you are unsure; you’ll never truly know unless you try!” she said. “I’ve never done anything like this before and I have been enjoying everything that Southampton has to offer.”

“What I enjoy the most is being able to work with such a great community of people and getting to feel how rewarding it feels to be able to help and work with my community,” she adds.

No prior experience is required to volunteer with Southampton Fire Company. Training and gear are provided.

Fill out a no-obligation inquiry form to see if volunteering is right for you!