TOMS RIVER – Erin Seneca spent years wanting to become a firefighter before finally joining the fire service in her 30s.
Seneca, a volunteer firefighter and EMT with East Dover Fire Company in the Toms River Fire Department, joined the department in 2020, when her daughter was 1. Today, Harper is 6 and her son, DJ, is 4.
Seneca also teaches Calculus 2 at High Technology High School and is in her 20th year in education.
She said balancing work, family and volunteer firefighting can be difficult, especially with young children at home. Seneca said she makes training drills and meeting nights a priority when she can, because ongoing training helps her stay current and ready to respond.
Seneca began volunteering as an EMT in 2006. She said firefighting had long been a goal, but she did not begin until after moving to Toms River.
In addition to responding to calls, Seneca recently began working as an instructor at the fire academy in Toms River, taking shifts when her schedule allows.
Seneca said being a parent has deepened the compassion she feels when helping people during emergencies.
Her children are also part of her firehouse life. They enjoy department events, including the annual Santa Run and Christmas party for firefighters’ children.
Fire service has long been part of Seneca’s family. Her grandfather and uncles were firefighters, and she grew up attending the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association Convention in Wildwood. She now takes her own children to see the fire trucks.
Seneca said she hopes her children learn the value of community service, helping others and pursuing what they love.
The Toms River Fire Department is seeking volunteer firefighters and junior firefighters. Training and gear are provided.
