By Barbara ScottStaff Writer
In 1966, Steve McDuffie was introduced to the field of fire services by Dave DeMerchant and he immediately loved the work and the people involved. Working at the Caribou Fire Department for one year as a paid call volunteer, he then became a full-time firefighter, a position he has held for the past 41 years, earning the rank of captain in 1985. Captain McDuffie, 67, commented, “It’s wonderful how children are now introduced to safety in the home through local schools and the Caribou Fire Department — we have far fewer fires and deaths. Listen to what your children have to say, and make sure your smoke detectors are all working properly.”
Even though fire safety is currently being taught to children beginning at an early age, Firefighter McDuffie, a 42-year veteran firefighter, is concerned about new gasoline mixtures and the modern day composition of furniture which can create unnoticeable fumes and he also is cautious of the electric car.
When off duty, Captain McDuffie offers his time and assistance, helping out his wife, Dorothy, at her shop, Secondhand Rose, located on Hershel Street in Caribou. The father of three sons, Shawn, Ryan and Steve, he is also kept busy by keeping up with six grandsons, Ethan, Nolan, Josh, Riley, Jordun and Spencer.
Captain McDuffie looks forward to spending time with his family and —“his fishing time at the camp.”
Known to be quite a cook himself, McDuffie’s favorite combo is seafood and tunes from the ‘50s and ‘60s but it might just be a definite no-go to anything with coconut and Rap music.
