Te Puke Volunteer Fire Brigade is made up of men and women who drop everything and run when their pagers go off and the fire siren sounds.

But who are these men and women?

With permission from the fire brigade, Te Puke News is publishing a write-up of its members, so you get an insight into the crew, where they come from, and what drives them as firefighters.

This week, we have Joelle Simmons.

She is a firefighter with roughly two years of experience under her belt.

Read more about Simmons below.

Reason you chose to join: Missed being part of a voluntary organisation. In a former life, I was a surf lifeguard for 12 years. Always wanted to rejoin another volunteer organisation once my three children became adults. The Fire Service fulfils my love for helping others selflessly.

Occupation: Retail business of boat propellers and marine parts.

All-time favourite call out: Don’t have a favourite yet, enjoying the variety of calls we get. From vegetation fires, structure fires, medicals and car accidents. But I really am humbled by the appreciation and respect our community has for the Fire Service.

Joelle Simmons at a shelterbelt fire. Photo / Te Puke Volunteer Fire Brigade Facebook

Hobbies and interests outside of the brigade:

Physical activities are my fave things to do. From water-skiing, mountain biking, going to the gym, and walking our dogs.

Enjoy also reading and crafting.

Love spending quality time with husband, family and friends.

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

Wash it all Away- Five Finger Death Punch.

Reminds me to de-stress and don’t sweat the small stuff.

Proudest moment as a brigade member:

Having my husband and mother and father see me become a firefighter at 45.

Joelle Simmons receiving an award. Photo / Te Puke Volunteer Fire Brigade Facebook

Most unusual or memorable call out: One of my first calls was a car accident where a small group of young men crashed at high speed on one of our country roads. Seeing the fear and tears on their young faces will stay with me forever.

Something you wish everyone knew: Life as you know it can change in a second.

Be kind always.