Gabe McNabb Grew Up Fighting Fires in Lower Mac

Name:  Gabriel McNabb

Age:  23

Hometown:  Lower Macungie Township

Family:  Gabe is single and has a girlfriend, Shelby Garner.  His parents, Brent and Cindy McNabb, are both very involved with Lower Macungie Fire Department.

Occupation:  “I work for my dad as an auto technician at . I also work at the Emmaus Fire Department, where I am a captain.”

Fire Company:  “I have been a firefighter for six and a half years at the . I grew up with firefighting.”

Training:  “I have lots of training, and it doesn’t stop. I have firefighter 1 and 2, fire instructor 1, vehicle rescue technician, water rescue, flammable liquids, just to name a few.  I am currently working on being certified as an emergency medical technician (EMT).

Describe your job with the fire company.  “I am the captain of the department and I oversee crews when we go out on calls. I am in charge of the training and help with the pre- fire planning of commercial buildings within the township. I also drive the ladder truck.”

How do your loved ones feel about you putting your life in danger?  “They are very supportive of what I do. It’s a part of our life—my family—we are all involved somehow.

“And this is what I firmly believe: Behind every strong fireman, there is always a strong woman to support him.”

Tell us a story you'll never forget about your firefighting experience.  “I remember Hurricane Ivan and how busy we were pumping basements and answering calls.  When that was done, we were immediately called to a fire at the —the rooming house next to the restaurant was on fire. By the time we were done, it was a total of 36 hours out til we got back home. We were all tired after that.”

What would you tell people interested in joining your fire company?  “It’s a great thing with a great brotherhood. There’s a lot of work involved, but it’s very rewarding to know you’ve helped someone.”

Do you know a volunteer firefighter who Patch should profile? Contact mariella.savidge@patch.com