Dudley selectmen choose newest FT firefighter

by Janet Stoica
Patriot Correspondent

DUDLEY - After a lengthy question-and-answer interview by each member of the Dudley Board of Selectmen, Brian Walker emerged as the board’s choice for the Dudley Fire Department’s newest member. The full-time position is to be funded through the SAFER (Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response) Grant Award. The process included a written exam consisting of 200 multiple choice questions, 100 firefighter level-one questions, 75 level-two questions, and 25 ALS (Advanced Life Support) protocol questions. The two candidates, Mr. Lyle McKay and Mr. Brian Walker, were also interviewed by four local Fire Chiefs: Stephen Coleman of Auburn, Brian Hickey of Webster, Kent Vinson of Douglas MA, and Mark Difronzo of Southbridge MA.

Mr. McKay is currently a full-time paramedic with the Webster EMS, and has been with the squad for five years. He has also been part of the local fire-call department for eight years and has filled in for other personnel as well. Additionally, his background includes certification under the National Firefighter standards. When asked why he should be chosen, Mr. McKay responded that he “strives hard to be the best I can. I always want to further my knowledge.”

Mr. Walker’s credentials include an Associates Degree in Fire Science, scuba-diving certification, and courses taken for pumps and hydraulics. During his interview process with the board he indicated that he was “passionate, dedicated, and proud of his problem-solving abilities.”

The Dudley Fire Department currently has full-time firefighters available from 6a.m.-6p.m. according to Fire Chief Kochanowski.