Who says you can’t be almost 80 and active in the fire department? Certainly not Tony Vaz. At 79 years old, Vaz continues to serve Seaside Heights in multiple capacities. As Mayor of Seaside Heights and a member of the Seaside Heights Fire Department’s fire police unit, he remains dedicated to serving his community both through public office and volunteer service.

Mayor Vaz has been a member of the Seaside Heights Fire Department since joining in 1968. After attending fire school and working his way through the ranks, he served in several leadership positions throughout the department.

Over the years, Mayor Vaz has been recognized for his service and leadership.

“I became an advocate of firematics,” he said (a broad term used to describe all activities associated with the fire service). “I also was named Fireman of the Year back in 1984 and Man of the Year in 2015.”

Mayor Vaz first became interested in the fire service after meeting several local firefighters.

“I was young at the time, I was 21,” he said. “I had met a few firemen, and I had an interest in it, so I joined.”

Age Has No Limits If You Want to Volunteer

While Mayor Vaz eventually retired from active firefighting, his commitment to the department has not wavered.

Recognizing that age would present physical limitations that would put himself and others at risk, Mayor Vaz stepped away from active firefighting. Rather than leave the department entirely, he found a new way to serve.

“I thought, I still want to be involved, but I got to be involved in a different way,” he said.

Mayor Vaz transitioned into the fire police unit, where he continues serving the community today. In this role, he helps ensure the safety of residents during fire-related incidents.

“Our job as fire police is the safe of those that are near or going towards the incident,” he said. “I make sure that traffic flows, that I’m redirecting the traffic away from the scene, whatever it is.”

Mayor Vaz believes there is a place for anyone who wants to help, regardless of age.

“Age shouldn’t stop anyone from getting involved,” he said. The fire department needs people with different skills and abilities, and there’s always a way to contribute.”

Mayor Vaz believes that the best part of volunteering with the Seaside Heights Fire Department is the opportunities that extend beyond the organization. He recounts instances in which volunteers have brought their commitment to other groups.

“They started off in the fire company, but now they serve on school boards, church groups, other volunteer organizations…you name it,” he said.

He believes his connections with fellow volunteers to be another one of the most rewarding aspects of being a volunteer.

“I made a lot of new friends over the years,” he said. “I’m always encouraged when I see new young persons have that enthusiasm.”

Interested in becoming a volunteer? There’s a role for you: firefighter, ocean rescue, fire police and more. Visit joinseasideheights.org to get started today. All gear and training are free.