Crime & Safety

South Media Fire Co.: Ed Kline

Get to know this South Media Fire Company first responder.

Media Patch wants you to get to know your first responders. They do dangerous work and Patch would like to recognize them. Here is a first responder who is also the chief at South Media Fire Company. Not only is he a fire chief, he also works a police officer too. 

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Name: Ed Kline

Age: 40

Find out what's happening in Mediawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Hometown: Swarthmore

Rank/Title: Fire Chief and full time Swarthmore Police Officer

 

How long have you been with the South Media Fire Co.?

I've been with South Media for six years and this is my first year as chief. But I've been in the fire service community for 24 years.

 

What do you like about your job?

I like the fire service. It's a great way to connect to the people and the needs of the community. There are lots of ways to volunteer but no other as direct and often as the fire service.

 

What do you dislike about your job?

It's hard to get recognition for what we do. A lot of people assume the fire department will be there no matter what but it costs money and time spent on recruiting, fundraising and fire education and training.

 

What inspired you to become a fire fighter?

I went to my first fire at 8 years old. The elementary school was on fire in the middle of the night and the fire chief showed me around the fire scene once it was out and daylight came. I borrowed a helmet and boots and everything. I joined at 16 years old and was lieutenant by 18. I was attracted to the energy of it all.

 

What do you like about the greater Media area?

It's a wonderful community and there's lots of culture and people. I love the homes, the trees, the people.

 

What do you want the general public to know about the South Media Fire Co.?

We're strictly volunteer and we put in 1,000 man hours to protect the public. Most people will be affected by fire at some point in their lives and we are of the community and here to help. Always volunteer, today and always.

 

 

 

 


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