First Responder of the Month

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FIREFIGHTER

GAREN RICHMOND

By Cheryl Owens

Mississippi Spirit

Garen Richmond with the City of Morton Fire Department has been chosen as the First Responder of the Month.

Richmond has served Scott County as a firefighter for almost six years and the City of Morton for just over a year. He says what inspired him to become a firefighter was his family.

“My family inspired me to become a firefighter,” said Richmond. “My dad and uncle were both firemen. My mom and grandmaw were both EMT’s.”

Richmond said the most rewarding part of his job is helping others.

“When someone calls because they need help, or are at one of the lower points in their life, I like to show up and be able to help them in a positive way,” Richmond said.

There is one common misconception the public has about a fireman’s work says Richmond.

“A common misconception of the fire service is all firemen just lay around and sleep at the station,” Richmond said. “Firemen are constantly learning new methods of fire and EMS response – training their body to withstand the high physical demands of fighting fire.”

On the Job and Community Service

Richmond recalls one call that stands out the most to him in the past month involved a commercial building fire.

“Multiple fire, law enforcement, and EMS agencies responded to the scene and worked in tandem to save as much property as possible,” said Richmond.

Richmond shares one of the hardest calls he ever had to handle, and how he overcame it.

“The hardest call I have had to handle was a friend who was involved in a fatality wreck,” said Richmond. “I was able to cope with it by talking to other people who understood what it was like to be in my shoes at that time.”

Richmond says one way to build trust with the community you serve is to show respect.

“One way I build trust with the community is to always be respectful despite whatever may be going on,” said Richmond. “Tensions are high on some calls, and staying calm, and respectful, goes a lot further than trying to assert dominance.”

Richmond explains in his words what it takes to be a first responder.

“I think the thing most people don’t understand is that different people have different scopes of practice, and some are more limited on what they can do than others,” said Richmond.

Personal Impact and Well-being

Richmond says to maintain mental and emotional health in a high-stress field he does things he enjoys.

“One thing I try to do when I’m off shift is to relax at the house, and do something I enjoy,” Richmond said. “To help me decompress I enjoy fishing and working in my yard.”

Richmond credits his captain as someone who helped shape his career.

“Someone who has been, and still is a mentor to me, is my captain at Forest, Scotty Yarborough,” Richmond said. “He has gained a wealth of knowledge about the fire service, and the city. Knowledge is power.”

One way the community can support the fire department is to show their concern, Richmond said.

“One way the community can better support the fire department is voice their concern for fire protection for the city of Morton, and give support for things the fire department is trying to accomplish,” Richmond said.

Personal Profile and Fun Questions

What is your favorite local spot in town? K’s Korner.

What is one item you never go on a shift without? My sunglasses.

What is your favorite comfort food after a long day? Spaghetti.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? When you are in a burning building and can’t see – closing your eyes tells your brain you can’t see, and calms your heart rate allowing you to work more effectively.

Richmond bought and moved into his home this past Dec. and just recently married his wife, Chloe, on March 27.