Female firefighters comprise approximately 9% of the firefighting workforce, facing unique challenges and opportunities for the women serving their communities. Hear from firefighters from all ranks, and learn about the insights, standards and policies helping create a more inclusive space for women.
FEATURES & PROFILES
The only way to finally end sexual harassment within our ranks is if everyone speaks up when they see it or experience it
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
Is anyone at the upper levels of government considering how the current round of federal government changes will impact public safety at the local level?
The former U.S. fire administrator underscores the need for the agency to be elevated as the leader of the nation’s fire service
Julie, the only woman on a 20-person crew, struggles to prove her worth and find a place in the very masculine world of firefighting
IN THE NEWS
The Los Angeles Fire Department’s Bureau of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion faces major cutbacks as Mayor Karen Bass proposes folding it into another division amid political pressure and budget cuts
A hidden spy camera disguised as a phone charger was discovered in the bunkroom of an El Cajon fire station, leaving female EMS personnel feeling violated and unsafe
Ann Arbor’s new firehouse will be named after Firefighter Mindy Kerr, honoring her legacy as a pioneer while embracing sustainable design
Warrens Firefighter Lori Boelkes became ill while driving home after responding to a motor vehicle crash
Sharon McDonough, a 34-year veteran of Tucson’s Fire Department, rose through the ranks and leds key public safety initiative
After securing workers’ compensation for breast, cervical and other cancers linked to hazardous exposures, firefighters fear the Trump administration may roll back protections by removing coverage details
On his first day, President Trump ordered federal agencies to end all “equity-related” grants and contracts, later mandating contractors to certify they don’t promote DEI
A long-running bootcamp for women has been put on hold due to President Donald Trump’s executive order banning DEI programs in the federal government
Grant County firefighters CW and Emily Forrest understand what it is like to be the spouse of a first responder
Battalion Chief Fitzsimmons joined the FDNY and was assigned to Engine 289 in Queens, just four months before the 9/11 terror attacks
ON THE BETTER EVERY SHIFT PODCAST
The Anne Arundel County fire chief underscores the importance of transparency and trust when stepping into a new leadership role
The San Francisco assistant chief shares tactical tips for dominating the fire so it has no chance of victory
As she steps down from the top spot in Baltimore County, Rund takes on a new, family-focused role with the NFFF
The Fairfax County (Virginia) firefighter-paramedic talks crew bonding, firefighter reproductive health, and banishing ego to create space for vulnerable conversations
The former CAL FIRE chief of fire protection shares stories from her unique path from seasonal firefighter to fire chief and beyond
It’s important to connect with your fellow firefighters, get involved in training, and avoid silos
The battalion chief explains how so much of her decision-making is rooted in the 2008 Salisbury Millworks blaze
The Indianapolis battalion chief highlights the power of company officers to quash negativity
The Raleigh firefighter and peer support advocate explains her perspective on healthy boundaries, therapy and why connection is life-sustaining
The fire service scientist details her newest adventure, the Science Alliance, plus how to make data accessible at the station level