Debbie Thelen, also known as “Mom” by some of the younger members in the department, has been volunteering at Blackwood Terrace Fire Company for 33 years. She also volunteers with her actual children, Megan Volk and Zachary Thelen, who have been around the firehouse since they were infants. They are now active firefighters.
“When you can watch your children save a life or property with you by their side, it is always a ‘proud mom moment,’” said Debbie.
Debbie’s husband, Greg, also volunteers as a firefighter. Debbie recalls a memory in 2016 when the family answered an emergency call together at GM Printwear on Hurffivlle Road.
“Megan was on a hose line with another firefighter,” Debbie said. “Zach was hooking up hydrants for water supply because he was a junior firefighter at the time, and Greg and I were running hoses.”
Debbie was an EMT for 30 years and began volunteering with Deptford Ambulance and Rescue Squad in 1986 before the fire department took over for the township.
“More so than actual firefighting, I enjoy the rescue aspect,” said Debbie. “Rope rescue and using the Hurst tools are among my favorite things to do.”
One of the longest tenured active female firefighters in the department, Debbie finds fulfillment in helping people. She has also found lifelong friends through volunteering in the department, whom she considers her second family.
“We are a large, dysfunctional family, and I wouldn’t trade that,” said Debbie.
Regardless of your background, our department is seeking volunteers willing to help protect the residents and businesses in our township. Those interested can learn more or fill out a contact form by clicking “Volunteer” then “Sign Up” on our website.