Meet Broomall Firefighter Karen Standen

Marple Newtown Patch wants you to get to know your first responders. They do dangerous work and Patch would like to recognize them.

This week, Marple Newtown Patch features Karen Standen, director of Fire Safety Education and board of director member of the . Standen holds the distinction of being the first female to join the Broomall Fire Co. and, today, is the only female firefighter to receive the Firefighter of the Year and President and Life Member awards. Additionally, Standen was presented with a Service Award from Delaware County Council.

Standen is currently vice president of a small commercial insurance company, attends Penn State University and is serving her community as an elected committeewoman.

Name: Karen Standen

Age: 47

Hometown: Broomall  

Rank/Title: Former firefighter  

How long have you been with the Broomall Fire Co.: I joined the Broomall Fire Co. in 1981.  

What do you like about your job?

The Broomall Fire Co. is a unique service in which the men and women volunteer to put the lives of others first. It is an incredible feeling of accomplishment and pride to help others, some of who are strangers. The Broomall fire Co. has the privilege of having some of the most respected firefighters in the county and is well known for our firefighting skills.

What do you dislike about your job?

Unfortunately some residents are not aware of the skilled professionals, who are all volunteers that they have right in their own station.

What inspired you to become a firefighter?

I have one of many “family ties” within the Broomall Fire Co. I followed my brothers, Michael and Tom, who followed our two uncles, John and Frank Moyse, whose mother (my grandmother) Rose Moyse was a member of the women’s auxiliary. Many of us are life members. 

What do you like about the Marple Newtown area?

Growing up I always felt that Marple had the feeling of a friendly, small town atmosphere. I have the same feeling today. 

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

We are constantly looking to recruit , junior firefighters, senior firefighters, fire police and administrative positions to better serve our community. If you are interested in knowing more about The Broomall Fire Co., see our website: www.broomallfirecompany.com.