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Kids On The Move: Andrew Cerullo

08/27/2008 - By by Beth Burke

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COLTS NECK VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTER

If you ever wondered what it takes to become a volunteer firefighter, just ask Andrew Cerullo, one of Colts Neck’s youngest additions to the department. This native son and 2008 graduate of Colts Neck High first learned the spirit of volunteerism from his father, Vincent, who is both a fireman and policeman, as well as a founding member of the charitable organization, Colts Neck Polo. What ultimately convinced Andrew to join, however, was the day he and his dad were driving through town and saw lightning strike a barn; they were the first to call in the biggest fire Andrew had ever seen. Watching the brave firefighters work tirelessly on that blaze all day inspired him to join Colts Neck Fire Company #2 as a junior firefighter (or cadet) at age 17.
 
As a cadet, Andrew learned by helping with ground operations that don’t involve being in the immediate area of a fire scene; these included pulling cumbersome fire hoses, unloading equipment off the trucks, and participating in non-emergency calls under controlled conditions. Once he turned 18, Andrew was eligible to attend the Monmouth County Fire Academy in Freehold for the rigorous, state-required training that includes over 130 hours of classroom and hands-on instruction, covering more than 30 topics! Course work included fire extinguishment, rescue procedures, CPR, hazardous material safety, equipment training, and even terrorism awareness.
 
The demanding physical nature of the job is often taken for granted, even by those interested in joining the department. “Firefighting is not for everyone,” Andrew reflects, “It’s not easy getting drilled and tested while carrying about 50 extra pounds of gear and air tanks. If you can make it through the Fire Academy without dropping out, you know you can handle it.” Confident and determined to be successful, Andrew graduated from the Fire Academy last spring and became a probationary member of the department.
 
According to company captain, Rich Galinksi, while probationary firefighters are restricted from driving fire trucks, entering burning buildings, and operating water pump controls, Andrew is now allowed to actively participate in any of the situations for which he was trained at the Fire Academy, including: assisting in responses to fire and carbon monoxide alarms; car accidents; vehicle or brush fires; and testing heat, smoke, or gas levels when these odors are detected. Since he took additional training in handling the fire department’s new extrication tools, he can also assist when those skills are required (for example, getting someone out who is stuck in a car following an accident). After completing a 6 month probationary period and demonstrating full knowledge of everything in the fire trucks, Andrew can now be officially recognized in the department as achieving the level of Firefighter I that he earned from the Fire Academy. Rich feels that Andrew’s personality will get him that distinction soon. “He’s a great listener, is eager to learn and participate, isn’t afraid to ask questions, and is very bright.”
 
Andrew believes that being a firefighter “teaches you a lot about yourself and your limits. You also learn to keep cool under stress, gain general knowledge of how to keep safe in many situations, and learn to work well with people.” In fact, the interesting people he’s met and close friends he’s made on the squad are what he likes best about being part of this dedicated team.
 
When not busy at the firehouse, Andrew can be found regularly volunteering for Colts Neck Polo. He also works out regularly with the Navesink River Rowing Club, honing his skills to try out for the crew team at the State University of New York Maritime Academy, which he begins attending this fall. In his spare time, this versatile young man also enjoys playing bass guitar and building things.
 
Andrew hopes to complete the training and testing that will allow him to come off probation by the time he heads off to school. He is already looking forward to coming back home during college breaks to continue helping his fellow Colts Neck firefighters perform this vital community service.
 
STATS
 
FAVORITE RESTAURANT
Huddy's Inn
 
FAVORITE MUSIC
heavy metal, classic rock
 
FAVORITE MOVIES
Patton and The Boondock Saints
 
PET PEEVE
people who text others when you’re hanging out with them
 
THREE PEOPLE YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH
Zakk Wylde, Ozzy Osbourne, and Chris Farley

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