Husband, Wife Say 'I Do' To Serving Mahwah As Fire, EMS Chiefs

MAHWAH, NJ — For the first time in more than 35 years, a husband and wife are leading the Mahwah Fire Department and EMS, respectively.

Chris and Carissa Stricker, who got married in 2021 and started dating in 2018, were sworn in on New Year's Day as chiefs of the fire department and the ambulance service.

Chris, elected to his first year as fire chief, and Carissa, elected to her fourth year as EMS chief, each by their own department members, said they believe local emergency responders should have a close connection and bond with each other, as they often answer calls together.

"Being able to serve as department chiefs at the same time is meaningful as we believe the departments, which already support each other, will be able to grow closer, work hand-in-hand and rely on each other more," Carissa Stricker said.

A third-generation firefighter, Chris Stricker was previously the assistant fire chief in Mahwah for two years, and chief of the Allendale Fire Department in 2016. His father was Mahwah fire chief in 2007 and 2008.

"It means a lot to be elected to this position and follow in my father's footsteps," Chris Stricker said in reference to his dad, who passed away in 2018.

Carissa, first joining EMS in Mahwah in 2010, said she and her husband, each elected to one-year terms, are dedicated to continue providing invaluable EMS and fire service to the community.

"We are excited that we will be able to work closely doing something that we are so passionate about," Carissa Stricker said.