Meet the Hero Next Door: How Ridgewood’s Newest Firefighter Stays Mission-Ready
photo courtesy of Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, the Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47 is back with another edition of “Meet the Members Monday.” This week, we’re stepping inside the firehouse to introduce you to one of our newest faces on the front lines: Thomas Malone.
Joining the department in 2024, Thomas has quickly become an integral part of Platoon B. From the high-intensity demands of life as a Firefighter/EMT to finding his rhythm on the golf course, here is a look at the man behind the uniform.
The Man Behind the Mask: Meet Thomas Malone
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Rank: Firefighter/EMT
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Platoon: B
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Serving Since: 2024
Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time outside of the firehouse? “I’m big on staying active. Whether it’s hitting the gym for a heavy lift or going for a run, I like to keep my fitness levels up. Lately, I’ve also been getting back into golf. My friends from high school and I make it a point to get together and play a different course as often as we can. It’s a great way to unwind.”
Q: Who has been the biggest influence on your journey? “Definitely my mom. She has always been in my corner, pushing me to be my best in everything—sports, school, and now my career. She strives for excellence and is a great role model for me. I’m forever grateful for her support.”
Inside the Job: Inspiration and Preparation
Q: What sparked your interest in the fire service? “It started in high school. I had a conversation with a firefighter about why he chose this path. His outgoing personality and genuine care for people really stuck with me. Seeing how much he loved the job made me want to be part of that kind of community.”
Q: How do you handle the physical and mental demands of being a Firefighter/EMT? “Physical fitness is non-negotiable for this job, so I lift weights and stay fit. But mental preparation is just as important. I prioritize healthy eating and, honestly, a good night’s sleep. If you’re well-rested, you can handle the stress and exhaustion of a long shift much more effectively.”
Q: What is your best advice for those looking to join the FMBA Local 47? “Don’t hesitate—take the chance and take the test! My biggest advice is to make connections. Find people who are already doing the job and ask them questions. Most of us are more than happy to share our experiences and help you get started.”
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Congratulations to you, be careful and have fun.