JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville firefighters reprimanded for “risqué behavior” at an August benefit are now hesitant to take part in another annual fundraiser.
Six off-duty firefighters received warnings after wearing department turnout gear during a provocative dance at a benefit event, faking sexual positions and in various states of undress, according to the Florida Times-Union.
The firefighters usually participate in the annual Southern Women’s Show during two “Firefighter Fashion Shows,” that sometimes involve provocative dance routines.
Jacksonville Fire Chief Marty Senterfitt said that after the August incident, the department is setting boundaries, making the statement that the firefighters are “never off duty.”
Union President Randy Wyse said firefighters are now hesitant because of the perception that officials will always be “out there looking at everything.”
Wyse said the fashion show organizers are having a difficult time recruiting firefighters to perform due to the added scrutiny.
It is still unclear how many firefighters, if any, will agree to be part of the fashion show, which premieres on Friday and Saturday.