Marple Newtown Patch wants you to get to know your first responders. They do dangerous work and Patch would like to recognize them. Meet this first responder who is a firefighter with the Newtown Square Fire Co.

Name: Eric Harper

Age: 28

Hometown: Newtown Square

Rank/Title: Ladder Lt. 4113

How long have you been with the Newtown Square Fire Co.?

About 6-7 years now.

What do you like about your job?

It's a good career—I like helping people and helping the community. I also enjoy getting an event together or a drill. I take care of the training for every drill that happens Monday night.

What do you dislike about your job?

During weekends, if you want to go out, you’re always worried who’s going to be around. I can’t really go out if that person isn’t around.

What inspired you to become a firefighter?

My friends and family inspired me. My dad was a Highland Park firefighter. My dad ran in Broomall, Newtown Square, and Tinicum as part of the fire police. We went to fire school together. But, mostly, my friends got me into it. I joined after they did. 

What do you like about the Marple Newtown area?

It’s close to home and all my friends are in this area. We all hangout at UNO on our off night and we hang out with the Broomall fire guys too. We get along with everybody.

What do you want the general public to know about the Newtown Square Fire Co.?

We’re here to protect and serve. If you call 911, you know we’ll be there. We’re staffed pretty much 24/7.