Matt Novak, 35, is a volunteer firefighter with Hecktown Fire Co. No. 1. He has been volunteering with the department for 16 years.

Novak, a Nazareth Area High School graduate and resident of Moore Township, works for Service Electric as an installer.

He lives with his wife, Denise, and his newborn daughter, Mekanah.

What is it like being a firefighter?

“It’s another job -- a job and a hobby all in one.”

What is your favorite thing about being a firefighter?

“I like the excitement and the feeling of helping people… and the friends that you have in the fire department. It’s another family.”

What made you decide to become a firefighter?  

“My friends got me involved, and I’ve liked it ever since.”

How do your loved ones feel about you putting your life on the line?

“My wife [gets] nervous, but she knows we’ll be safe. I want to come home to her.”

What would you tell someone who is thinking about joining the department?

“Come out, give it a shot, and see how you like it. We always need help.”