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While most people would run out of a burning building, Dave Magee has been running in, focused on doing whatever he could to keep a bad day from getting worse.

After 32 years of doing just that, and raising awareness about preventing fire-related catastrophes, Magee hung up his captain’s helmet and firefighting gear for the last time Thursday (July 14).

Magee became a firefighter in 1990 when he signed on as a volunteer, hoping to put his mechanical background to good use. In 1994, he was hired on full time.

“Coming from Lindsay, I was thrilled to be part of the fire department. I think having a familiar face helping you out during an emergency offers people some peace of mind and comfort. I think it puts people at ease and that feels pretty good,” said Magee.

Over his three decades of service, Magee has seen his fair share of difficult days — such as those calls that involve a fatality — as well as those days when the human spirit of generosity and support have paid forward in spades.

“I try not to dwell on those hard days, and there’s enough good ones to make up for them,” said Magee.

He notes the job has changed over the years both in scope and technology.

“It’s not just firefighting anymore,” said Magee. “I call us ‘trouble shooters,’ because we’re often the ones people call after they’ve exhausted all other efforts to address their problem ... And that suits me just fine. I like being able to help.”

Technological advancements have not only helped make firefighting more efficient but also ensured those doing the work are safer.

Granted, new technology has also created challenges.

While firefighters don’t have to worry about gasoline leaks with electric cars, the batteries are a major hazard, explained Magee. In recent years, firefighters have found they need to flow large amounts of water on the batteries because the fire kept flaring up even after it appeared to be extinguished.

Magee has thoroughly enjoyed his rewarding career and will miss the camaraderie between his coworkers, whom he prefers to dub his “extended family.”

“It’s not that I want to leave. But I’m 60 now, and it’s just that point in my life,” said Magee. “I won’t say I’m not going to miss firefighting; I’ve enjoyed my time (at the department) and had the opportunity to work with some really great people. But I’m actually really looking forward to retirement.”

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