Female Firefighters
Female firefighters comprise approximately 9% of the firefighting workforce, creating unique challenges and opportunities for the women who join the ranks to serve their communities. The Female Firefighters resource page covers an array of news related to women in the fire service, including promotions and other career triumphs, as well as information about standards and policies to create more equitable and inclusive spaces for women. Hear from female firefighters of all ranks about their experiences, from serving on the front lines of the firefight to leading fire departments and fire service organizations.
FDNY
Probationary Firefighter Jessica Chiodo’s father Peter Chiodo was on the job for 25 years and died of a 9/11-related illness
The IAFC’s comprehensive guide to hosting a fire camp is a blueprint for recruiting more women into the fire service
FDNY
Laura Kavanagh says she plans to help with the transition in leadership
The lawsuit alleges women were barred from becoming paramedics by unnecessary physical tests
The former Bedford firefighter alleges the harassment created a fear of “physical violence and/or sabotage”
As she steps down from the top spot in Baltimore County, Rund takes on a new, family-focused role with the NFFF
The inaugural “Girls in Green” camp in Pine Valley introduced teen girls to various professions in the U.S. Forest Service
New Haven Assistant Fire Chief Shakira Samuel joined the department over 20 years ago
Twin Cities Female Firefighter Fitness was created to encourage women to consider a career in firefighting
Amid repeated setbacks and naysayers attitudes, I pushed forward to achieve my fire department dream
Properly fitting pants, coats and boots are essential for firefighter safety and performance
Colleen Windsor claimed the Orange County Fire Authority had a “well-documented history of chauvinism and misogyny”
Find the perfect blend of protection, durability and comfort tailored to your unique needs as a female first responder
Former Easthampton Firefighter was sentenced to eight months in prison and two years probation
Baltimore County Fire Chief Joanne Rund led the department through the pandemic and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge
The HERo’s Girl’s Fire Camp in Solano County empowers young women to consider a career in fire, EMS
Spokane Fire Chief Julie O’Berg lists improving firefighter mental health, wellnes as an initial objective
Pine Hill Fire Department Chief Jessica Calandra looks at recruitment, morale and EMS challenges in the community
The Fairfax County (Virginia) firefighter-paramedic talks crew bonding, firefighter reproductive health, and banishing ego to create space for vulnerable conversations
“What I’ve found is we’re all treated as equals here— it doesn’t matter how young or old you are —you’re a firefighter,” Cheat Lake VFD Firefighter Peggy Paulick said
Erin and Ashley Lucas are the only set of twins on the staff of the Lexington Fire Department, and they said that sometimes makes work a little more interesting
Marking the 50th anniversary of her historic hiring, Brewer reflects on her career and the challenges and joys of breaking the fire service glass ceiling
During a month dedicated to recognizing the experiences, nuance and unique perspective women provide, FireRescue1 takes a look at how women have impacted the fire service
Survey finds 55% of female firefighters had been assaulted or know someone else who had been assaulted during fire/EMS work
The HERo Girls Fire Camp empowers young women through hands-on experiences
Participants learn a variety of skills to expose them to the fire service and build confidence
Female firefighters explained how gear designed for men increases their risk of being burned, slows their movements
“I’m still pretty badass at 75, but I wish I had done it sooner,” Mary Jarschke said as she prepares to graduate as a volunteer firefighter
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