Congratulations to Meriel Longley, one of our 20 Outstanding Women of 2025!
Listen to Meriel’s full interview with Blake and Kelly below:
Meriel Longley is a dedicated Firefighter/Paramedic serving Harpswell and Wiscasset, a volunteer firefighter with the Orr’s Island Fire Department, and president of the Cundy’s Harbor Fire Department Auxiliary. She has spearheaded numerous public safety initiatives, including implementing a house numbering program to provide reflective, 911-compliant signs—funding the first batch herself to prove its effectiveness. She also launched a marine flare take-back program to reduce fire risks from expired flares.
Passionate about education, Meriel serves on the advisory board for Region-10 vocational school’s EMT program and has developed fire safety education for local schools. She created a program allowing high school students to earn college credit through volunteering and job-shadowing with local fire departments.
Meriel co-founded a junior firefighter program, mentors aspiring Firefighters and EMTs, and teaches CPR and continuing education courses. Her work has helped numerous responders gain certifications and employment. A trailblazer in emergency services, she is a role model for women in the field, continually improving safety, training, and response efforts. Her dedication has saved lives and strengthened her community.
