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.
As a woman in the fire service, I am so grateful for my extended family and this group of role models for my son
FEATURES & PROFILES
Research shows that female firefighters face different risks than their male counterparts
Define what behaviors are off limits and what to do if an assault against emergency responders does occur
While exposed to the same on-the-job dangers as their male colleagues, female firefighters, EMTs and paramedics have different levels of risks
Female firefighters are held to the same standards as their male counterparts, and cannot be overlooked in firefighter recruitment campaigns
With more women than ever joining departments, open dorms and a lack of bathrooms make for a difficult work environment
IN THE NEWS
A police report says a female Easthampton firefighter noticed a “blue light” coming from a locker, which led her to find cameras in two lockers
The class of 90 includes one woman and recruits who speak a variety of languages
The lawsuit states that a senior firefighter stalked and harassed then-firefighter Angela Bommarito and criticizes Harrison Fire Department and town officials
Kimberly Schoppa “was just such a hard worker, she constantly smiled,” said Deputy Chief Tracey Reed
Former Asheville Fire Department Division Chief Joy Ponder said she endured emotional distress in a hostile work environment
Vancouver Fire Station 2 includes Captain Heidi Parr and Firefighters Melissa Anthony and Hannah Nelson
“Breaking barriers is possible,” said Queen Anunay, who until recently led the EMS division
Fred Mathis was found to be likely intoxicated while at FD HQ but, at some point, was marked out sick; accusations of special treatment emerge
The study, led by Dr. Denise Smith, has been published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Capt. Adam Matson said Alexandria does not have any current female firefighters but hopes that expanded parental leave attracts future applicants
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