Garden City Firefighter Wayne Kuehler carries the life-saving skills he has developed on the scene with him in his day-to-day life, but never imagined they would be put to the test during a family camping trip.
“We were in the woods, in the middle of nowhere, and a child at a nearby campsite had fallen into the campfire. I was able to render aid and instruct the parents on what to do until they arrived at the hospital,” said Kuehler. “The stuff you learn as a volunteer firefighter truly is valuable and can help protect yourself and others when least expected.”
For the last 21 years, Kuehler has been with the Garden City Fire Company. Currently, he is a firefighter and Safety Officer, and has filled other roles at the company as an Engineer, Lieutenant, Battalion Chief, Assistant Chief and Training Officer. Kuehler began his career in the volunteer fire service in Ridley Park, Pa. in 1976.
“When I was in high school, I would show up for homeroom each morning, and one of my closest friends would tell me about the adventures he had at the fire company. It sounded pretty cool and sparked my interest,” said Kuehler.
While volunteering at Garden City, Kuehler has worked as a Firefighter and EMT at Swarthmore Fire and Protective Association and served as a member of the Emergency Response Team at Kimberly Clark.
Kuehler’s favorite part about volunteering is being able to make a positive impact and help those in the Nether Providence community.
“I think it is important to give something back to the community that you live in. Nether Providence Township is a beautiful place, and the most important part for me is being able to give something back to the community that I love,” said Kuehler.
You can give back to the community as a volunteer with Garden City Fire Company, and no prior experience is needed to get started! Training and gear are provided to all volunteers. Learn more about how you can begin making a positive impact in your community at www.GardenCityFirefighter.org.