Exclusive Q&A with Ridgewood FMBA Local 47 President on Harrowing Calls, Leadership, and Life Off the Clock
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood, NJ – Behind every siren in the Village of Ridgewood are dedicated men and women who serve the community. Today, we’re putting the spotlight on a key leader and long-time servant of the Ridgewood Professional Firefighters FMBA Local 47: Firefighter Jason Jacoby.
Serving not only as a Firefighter and EMT but also as the President of FMBA Local 47, Jason Jacoby has dedicated his life to protection, safety, and continuous self-improvement. Read on to learn what inspires him, his most memorable call, and his candid perspective on the emotional toll of emergency service.
Meet the Member: Jason Jacoby
From Curious Visitor to Lifesaver
What ignites the spark in a future firefighter? For Jason, it was a simple invitation that changed his life’s trajectory:
“I had friends in the fire service and they invited me to the firehouse one night to check it out. I became instantly hooked.”
Since then, Firefighter Jacoby has acquired a wealth of certifications, from Confined Space Operations to Rescue Task Force, preparing him for nearly any scenario.
Most Memorable Call: The Birth of Baby Jacob
While firefighting is often associated with battling blazes, the most impactful calls are sometimes the ones that celebrate life. Jason shares his most unforgettable moment:
“The most memorable call I have had so far was delivering a beautiful baby boy in the home of a resident. Baby Jacob!“
The Unseen Challenge: Taking Care of Mental Health
The rewards of the job are undeniable, but Jason is candid about the emotional difficulty of the work, emphasizing the importance of mental wellness in the fire service:
“The most challenging part of being a firefighter is not bringing home the ups and downs of the job we are called to do. Being a firefighter/EMT is very rewarding most of the time, but there are those calls that will haunt you forever!“
This perspective reflects the growing awareness of the mental health challenges faced by first responders. It’s no wonder his favorite quote is a profound reminder: “It is okay to not be okay.”
Goals On and Off the Truck
When he’s not leading his local or responding to a call, you can find Jason snowmobiling in the winter or spending quality time with his family. His personal and professional goals are intertwined with a constant drive for improvement:
“To be a better person than I was yesterday. Always continue to do better and be the best version of yourself. Never stop learning. Never stop thriving.“
